Thursday, October 2, 2025

Patients Scramble for Treatments as Hospitals Conserve IV Fluids

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IV Fluid Shortage: Hospitals Scramble as Hurricane-Related Supply Crisis Drags On

Yvonne Hemze, a 52-year-old from Farmington, Minnesota, was scheduled to have a cancerous tumor removed from her kidney on Tuesday. But days before the surgery, she received a call from the hospital, Abbott Northwestern, informing her that the procedure had been canceled. The hospital, like many others across the United States, is battling a severe shortage of intravenous (IV) fluids, a crucial component for patients undergoing surgeries.

Running out of supply

The shortage was triggered by Hurricane Helene, which damaged a Baxter International facility in North Carolina, leading to a temporary closure. Baxter is the nation’s largest producer of IV fluids. As a result, hospitals are left scrambling to conserve their stock, including postponing or canceling non-emergency surgeries. Patients like Hemze are being forced to wait, anxious about the potential consequences for their health.

"Hemze said she hasn’t been able to get in contact with her doctor since the cancellation and fears her cancer will only get worse," the article states.

Working with the government

The federal government is working with Baxter to resolve the supply issue as soon as possible. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has temporarily allowed for the importation of IV fluids from Baxter plants in Canada, China, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. The agency is also assisting Baxter in getting its facility back up and running.

Ix Fluid Manufacturers

There are only a handful of IV fluid manufacturers in the U.S. and abroad, making any disruption significant. For Hannah Hale, 37, a patient with Crohn’s disease, the shortage means she may not be able to get the dextrose solution she needs to keep her alive.

FAQs

Q: What happened to the Baxter facility in North Carolina?
A: Hurricane Helene damaged the Baxter International facility in North Carolina, leading to its temporary closure.

Q: How will hospitals conserve their IV fluid supply?
A: Hospitals are taking steps to conserve their stock, including postponing or canceling non-emergency surgeries and providing alternative hydration methods, such as Gatorade or water.

Q: Will IV fluid manufacturers be able to increase supply?
A: The federal government is working with Baxter to resolve the supply issue. The company hopes to return to 90% to 100% allocation of certain IV solution products by the end of the year.

Q: What is meant by the "lifeblood of treating patients in hospitals"?
A: IV fluids are essential for patients undergoing surgeries, keeping them hydrated, regulating blood pressure, and compensating for lost fluid, including blood. Dr. Chris DeRienzo, a neonatologist and the chief physician executive of the American Hospital Association, described IV fluids as the "lifeblood of treating patients in hospitals."

Q: Will patients with chronic illnesses be affected?
A: Yes, patients with chronic illnesses, like Crohn’s disease, rely on IV nutrition. As a result, they may face delays or shortages in their treatment.

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