Seymour hospital delays certain procedures due to IV fluid shortage
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Schneck Medical Center in Seymour announced this week it is rescheduling a number of non-emergency surgeries as a result of a nationwide shortage of IV fluids. The hospital said the decision is a proactive move as it works with its suppliers to address the issue.
The shortage is the result of Hurricane Helene, which damaged the largest IV fluid manufacturing plant in the U.S. in September, WFYI reported last week.
Baxter International, the largest manufacturer of IV fluids nationwide, is still only producing about 60% of its normal supply.
Schneck said it has implemented a conservation plan to ensure optimal use of its existing IV fluid supplies while exploring alternative sourcing options.
“This decision was made with the safety and well-being of our patients as our top priority,” Schneck CEO Eric Fish said in a news release. “While the IV fluid shortage is a national issue, we are taking every step to ensure that emergency procedures remain unaffected and that patients impacted by this rescheduling are given the earliest possible new dates.”
The hospital said patients affected by the rescheduling effort have been notified directly and can expect personal follow-up calls to confirm new dates as soon as possible.
We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and we deeply appreciate the patience and understanding of our patients and their families during this time,” Fish said.
