IV Solution Shortage Updates
Connecticut hospitals and health systems have implemented action plans to manage and conserve critical intravenous (IV) fluids after flood damage from Hurricane Helene forced a Baxter International facility in North Carolina to shut down, triggering a nationwide shortage.
Connecticut hospitals and health systems are maximizing supplies and minimizing disruption to patient care by conserving product and encouraging all healthcare entities that use IV fluids to do the same.
CHA continues to monitor impacts on hospital operations throughout the state and is working closely with the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) and Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) on a coordinated response. CHA met with Connecticut congressional delegation staff to elevate member feedback and address concerns. CHA appreciates the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) taking steps to boost supply, including by declaring an official shortage of three critical IV fluids, issuing a temporary policy allowing hospital pharmacies to manufacture their own solutions, and extending the shelf life of more than 50 IV and irrigation solutions produced by Baxter International. CHA is also continuing to advocate for the federal government to incentivize manufacturers to expand production of materials and goods needed to produce sterile IV and peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions and containers.
CHA Updates
October 31: Expiry Extension for Baxter IV Solutions Authorized Amid Nationwide Shortage
October 24: IV Solution Imports To Alleviate Nationwide Shortage Arrive in U.S.
October 17: Connecticut Hospitals, Health Systems Conserving IV Solutions Amid Nationwide Shortage
October 10: Connecticut Hospitals, Health Systems Mitigating Impacts of Nationwide IV Fluid Shortage
NBC CT: Connecticut hospitals monitor possible IV fluid shortage after hurricane
Hartford Courant: CT hospitals grapple with national IV fluid supply shortage; ‘working closely with our suppliers’
Resources
AHA Updates
CDC Health Advisory
Extended Expiration Dates for Baxter Product Codes
Baxter Clinical Resources
Baxter Operational Updates
ASHP Management and Conservation Suggestions
Efforts to increase domestic supply:
The Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau warned that law enforcement would use every tool available to stop price gouging, price fixing and other illegal scams. They encourage people to report violations at www.justice.gov or www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Contact Baxter
For customers who need additional assistance beyond their existing communications channels with Baxter, please contact HurricaneHeleneSupport@baxter.com, particularly if they are in dire need of product.