National Normal Saline Shortage

[displacedyankeeRN]

Looking for possible sources to order 0.9% NS, esp. 100 ml bags. I work for a small, private rheumatology practice and I order my own supplies but neither McKesson, Henry Schein or Besse Medical have any nor do they have any idea when they will get more. I have enough for next weeks patients, but that's it. Our local hospital's inpatient pharmacy has helped us out in past national shortages, but even they are down to 2 cases of the 100 ml bags! This is an inexcusable national crisis! The manufacturers cite production issues and increased demand. They have been using the same excuse for 3+ years now. Makes one wonder if its collusion to drive up prices! Seriously folks...its salt water!

[lhflanurseNP, APRN]

Started with Sterile Water then Lactated Ringers, now Normal Saline! If you don't want to freak out too much...consider Vet supply places! Many still have supplies. I just ordered 24-250cc bags from the vet who works in the same complex.

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

It's because of the hurricane that destroyed Puerto Rico. Most normal saline for US hospitals is manufactured there.

[NottaSpringChik, BSN, RN]

It's because of the hurricane that destroyed Puerto Rico. Most normal saline for US hospitals is manufactured there.

Other IV medications bags projected to be affected too. Saw the notice that alternative delivery methods may need to be explored, such as IV push if feasible. Well see. Hope not.

[KelRN215, BSN, RN]

Other IV medications bags projected to be affected too. Saw the notice that alternative delivery methods may need to be explored, such as IV push if feasible. Well see. Hope not.

My Infusion Pharmacy has said that all meds that can be pushed will need to be pushed until the shortage is resolved.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

My Infusion Pharmacy has said that all meds that can be pushed will need to be pushed until the shortage is resolved.

That's the verdict from my hospital's pharmacy as well. They've also extended the length of time a bag of fluids can hang, meds in mini bags will be hung as the primary with a saline syringe flush only- no more priming with saline.