Supplies Low: IV Fluid Shortage Affects Healthcare Nationwide

A recent survey found that over 86% of healthcare providers are dealing with a shortage of intravenous fluids, or IV fluids, due to a damaged manufacturing plant in North Carolina. The plant, which produces 60% of the country's IV fluids, was hit by Hurricane Helene. IV fluids are crucial for treating dehydration and delivering medications. The survey, conducted by Premier, a medical supplies group, revealed that many providers are only getting half of their ordered supplies and some are down to just 10 days' worth. This shortage is causing hospitals to make tough decisions. Nearly 17% have already started delaying non-urgent surgeries and treatments. If the situation doesn't improve in a month, 78% say they'll have to do the same. The plant's owner, Baxter, is trying to boost production at other sites and expects to raise supply levels for some products by the end of the year.