2-10-18 iv solution shortage

Wisconsin hospitals and health systems are taking steps to conserve their IV solution supplies as they cope with unprecedented shortages.   Wisconsin Hospital Association vice president of workforce and clinical practice, Ann Zenk says the problem started following the hurricane that devastated Puerto Rico where much of the IV solution used by hospitals is manufactured.  Zenk says in Wisconsin the shortage has not delayed or hindered care.   But she says  hospitals have changed the way care is provided.  “…instead of a nurse coming in and hanging a bag of IV fluid and dripping it into your line, you might have the nurse come in with a syringe giving your that med right at your bedside,”  Zenk told WFDL news.  Zenk says the prolonged nature of the shortage and the severe flu season compounds the issue.