IV Fluid Nationwide Shortage: Conservation Continues

As we continue to conserve and work with IV fluid vendors, we are not yet out of the woods and ask teams to continue to find ways to conserve.

As orders are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, there might be some that are held, partially filled or delayed. If you have an urgent need, contact Craig Bryant, Materials Management (csbryant@carilionclinic.org) or Jason Hoffman, Pharmacy Services (jahoffman@carilionclinic.org).

Be sure to connect with you manager as you have questions or suggestions. 

Conservation Tactics:

• We are asking all locations (including inpatient) to work to reduce/conserve IV fluid use.
  • Take only the number of IV fluid bags needed now (one at a time).
  • Do not take IV fluid bags into a room until just before use.
  • With individual patients, consider whether a new IV fluid bag is truly needed. Consider whether it is likely IV fluids will be discontinued for your patient in the near future and if the IV fluid order can be discontinued earlier.
• For ambulatory clinics, IV fluid ordering from Materials Management remains on hold.

Returning fluids

Please place items and fluids for return in the normal Logistics delivery/pick-up locations for your area. Fill out and include this form with the materials. 

Epic Order Update

Out of an abundance of caution, we are decreasing the IV fluid order default from 48 hours to 24 hours. This allows us to be good stewards of the fluids we have on hand while aligning with best industry practices. We ask that providers assess fluid needs daily, reordering fluids if truly needed.