Indiana hospitals face national shortage of IV fluids

Indiana hospitals have implemented a comprehensive conservation plan during the national IV fluid shortage that has affected healthcare facilities and hospitals across the country.

Delays in shipments from third-party vendors have forced some hospitals to reassess their stock and prioritize current supplies for patients with critical needs. Hospitals are experiencing varying degrees of impact.

“It could be weeks before some hospitals start receiving their allocation of IV fluids,” said Blake Dye, interim president of the Indiana Hospital Association.

The conservation plan includes reviewing and optimizing fluid use for each patient, exploring alternative therapies, and prioritizing supply.

Some hospitals are rescheduling elective, non-urgent procedures to preserve the IV fluid supply. In these cases, patients will be notified by their provider to reschedule. Emergency care and urgent surgeries are not affected.

“We’re certainly not alone in this situation, as this is a national shortage that affects every state,” Dye said. “Hoosiers should feel confident that Indiana hospitals are managing the current situation, taking proactive steps that align with best clinical practices and working diligently to minimize the impact on patient care.”

The Indiana Hospital Association continues to work with the Indiana Department of Health and the American Hospital Association to assess current supply levels and convey the impact of the disruption nationwide.

“We appreciate the way Indiana hospitals are minimizing the impact this national shortage is having on patient care,” said Lindsay M. Weaver, state health commissioner. “The Indiana Department of Health is in contact with Indiana hospitals and remains dedicated to working with our state and federal partners until the situation is resolved.”

For more information about the Indiana Hospital Association, visit IHAConnect.org.

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Contact health and environment reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.