<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4VCOo4_0wADw9wc00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4VCOo4_0wADw9wc00" width="1320" height="743" >Healthcare facilities nationwide are grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which severely damaged Baxter International's North Cove production site in North Carolina. Baxter International supplies 60% of the nation's IV fluids, and the disruption has prompted healthcare providers to take precautionary measures.Amy McCombs, RN, MSN, chief operations officer at Renown Regional Medical Center, said the facility is always prepared for such situations. "We practice preparedness at all times. We are the only level two trauma center for both pediatrics and adults in our community. So, we are constantly prepared for any events, whether that's mass casualty or disasters such as this," she said.Renown has implemented conservation plans to address the supply shortage. "When you come into the E.R., you might be asked to drink a Gatorade or something similar like that, versus where in days prior, we might have given you a little bit of IV Fluid," McCombs said.If the shortage worsens, elective surgical procedures may be delayed and evaluated individually. "The elective procedures, such as arthroscopy, so orthopedic procedures, as well as some urologic procedures, use a significant amount of fluid in irrigation. And that's also one of the critical supply items. So, we just are monitoring that very closely," McCombs added.Despite the challenges, Renown continues to operate normally, utilizing their 'Hospital Incident Command System' to manage supply levels and distribution. "We have a close monitoring on our supplies and also are working with suppliers across the nation and across other countries," McCombs said.The Northern Nevada Health System is also keeping a close watch on IV fluid levels. In a statement, staff said, "Northern Nevada Health System is actively monitoring the IV fluid shortage, and we have protocols in place for daily monitoring of our supply chain. Operations at Northern Nevada Medical Center, Sierra Medical Center, and our freestanding emergency departments remain the same. In addition, we have continued to perform and schedule all medical procedures."Baxter International has resumed operations at its North Carolina facility, though repairs are ongoing. The company is limiting the amount of IV fluids healthcare providers can purchase but hopes to return to full operations by the end of 2024.</div></body>

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Hurricane Helene disrupts IV fluid supply, Nevada hospitals adapt

Healthcare facilities nationwide are grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which severely damaged Baxter International's North Cove production site in North Carolina. Baxter International supplies 60% of the nation's IV fluids, and the disruption has prompted healthcare providers to take precautionary measures. Amy McCombs, RN, MSN, chief operations officer...