Saline shortage

[hoperenae]

I have started a new job as an infusion therapy nurse. One of my first tasks is to locate 0.9% NS for use with Remicade infusions. We are currently on back order from our distributor (Henry Schein). I know B. Braun was approved to begin shipping sodium chloride from their facility in Germany, as well as another company from Spain. Hospira is currently holding their 0.9% NS for chemotherapy patients. I would appreciate any tips you may have on other potential sources to help us through this shortage. We are ideally seeking 250 mL bags of 0.9% NS. Thank you!

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

Ask your local pharmacy provider for name of local compounding pharmacy: could produce for individual patient use if supply critical.

[hoperenae]

Thank you! I actually did find a compounding pharmacy recently. Prices are absurd, but it could come to that if we can't find anything else. Thankfully, our backordered supply came in, but it is not much. The RN who was here previously ordered a small amount, not taking into consideration, the shortage. I will place another order with them immediately to get back on the backorder list. Thank you for your suggestions. We also have a credit app in with Baxter & are awaiting approval from them for ordering as well.