Hospitals adapt to IV fluid shortages

October 7, 2024
Northfield Hospital

OCTOBER 7, 2024 – Northfield Hospital is among U.S. hospitals affected by the shortage of IV fluids caused by hurricane damage to Baxter’s production plant in North Cove, NC.

Baxter’s sterile drug manufacturing plant produces over 60% of IV solutions used by U.S. hospitals. The shortage is affecting hospitals nationwide.

Northfield Hospital has begun IV fluid conservation measures. This does not affect the safety of care at NH+C.

NH+C may delay or cancel some elective surgeries. We will contact any affected patients directly.

If you need emergency care, go to the Emergency Department if you have a serious or life-threatening condition. Call 911 if you cannot wait.

If you have a non-emergency illness or injury, go to Urgent Care in Northfield or Lakeville.

The national shortage is expected to last for some weeks. As of Oct. 7, Baxter does not yet have a timeline to resume operations at its North Cove plant.

If you want to help in the meantime, NH+C encourages you to take care of yourself. The rule of thumb: Prevent the illnesses and injuries that you can, and get care when you need it.