Story Medical Effectively Managing National IV Fluid Shortage

NEVADA, IOWA – Like healthcare providers across the country, Story Medical is experiencing the effects of a national IV fluid shortage. The shortage stems from the impact of two major hurricanes—Helene in North Carolina and Milton in Florida—that led to the temporary closure of major IV fluid production facilities. While this shortage is affecting hospitals across the nation, Story Medical has been proactive in implementing measures to address the shortage and is managing the situation effectively.

The shortage has not compromised the high-quality care provided by Story Medical, but it has required adjustments to ensure responsible use of resources. The medical team is taking steps such as:

• Evaluating Patient Needs: Before automatically administering IV fluids, Story Medical clinicians are carefully evaluating patients to determine if IV hydration is necessary.
• Reviewing Antibiotic Use: For patients requiring antibiotics, the staff is assessing whether the medications can be administered without IV fluids, allowing for more strategic use of the IV supply.
• Encouraging Oral Hydration: In cases of mild to moderate dehydration, oral hydration methods, such as the use of Gatorade, are being used as a safe and effective alternative to IV fluids.

Despite the challenges posed by the shortage, it is expected that the current measures will be short term and that normal IV fluid supplies will be restored by the end of the year.

Story Medical continues to provide excellent care during this time, and is committed to keeping patients informed about the adjustments being made to manage this temporary supply issue.

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About Story Medical
For more than 60 years, Story County Medical Center, Story Medical Clinics and Story Medical Senior Care have been the trusted providers of high-quality, local healthcare services for the residents of Story County. Their modern South Campus creates a healing environment that matches the personalized care and clinical expertise of its medical staff. Visit www.StoryMedical.org for more information.