A nationwide IV fluid shortage has forced Rochester-area hospitals to overhaul patient care. Both UR Medicine and Rochester Regional Health have halved their IV fluid usage since Hurricane Helene damaged the country’s largest manufacturing plant. The bulky nature of IV fluids, which limits stockpiling, made rapid adaptation critical.
Hospitals initially paused elective surgeries to prioritize critical cases but have since resumed after finding alternatives. These include oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte and Gatorade and greater use of oral medications. Patients can also drink water closer to surgery time. The crisis accelerated reassessment of practices, with studies questioning the necessity of IV fluids in certain scenarios.
Hospitals now employ dedicated staff to manage shortages, emphasizing long-term strategies to navigate supply challenges while maintaining high-quality care.
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