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Summary

A nationwide IV fluid shortage, caused by Hurricane Helene’s damage to Baxter International’s North Carolina facility, is forcing hospitals to adopt conservation measures that could reshape patient hydration practices.

The facility, which supplies 60% of U.S. IV fluids, has resumed partial production but won’t reach full capacity soon.

Hospitals are rationing supplies, using alternatives like push medications, and re-evaluating hydration protocols to ensure care continuity.

While these strategies could permanently reduce IV fluid use, challenges include increased nurse workloads, patient monitoring risks, and strained resources amid respiratory virus season and year-end surgical demands.