In this section
Children’s Wisconsin is managing a shortage of IV fluids due to recent hurricanes
Like many hospitals nationwide, we are conserving intravenous (IV) fluids and carefully managing the impact of this supply issue on our patients, to continue to provide the best and safest care to the kids we serve.
Please communicate with families you refer and ensure they understand that children who need fluids may receive them in a manner different than what they normally expect.
We’ve prepared these talking points to support your conversations with families. (You may modify as needed based on the clinical situation.)
- As you may be aware, many hospitals including ours are working to manage a national shortage of IV fluids.
- As a result, the child you refer may receive fluids in a different way when they arrive. They are more likely to receive anti-emetics (if vomiting) followed by an oral challenge or to have an NG placed so enteral fluids can be given.
- These ways are safe and work just as well but may be different than families may have previously encountered.
Thank you for working with the families you refer so that expectations on current practice are accurate and appropriate. We appreciate your collaboration.
If you have questions or concerns, please call the Children’s Wisconsin physician consultation line at (414) 266-2460.