The nationwide IV fluid shortage brought on by Hurricane Maria has arrived in full force.
In response to this shortage of NS, a pre-checked order (IV to ID WHEN TAKING PO WELL) was added on Jan. 29 to most admission order sets which empowers nurses to turn off IV fluids when the patient is tolerating PO well (please discuss with provider what “taking PO well” means). This order is bundled with the “NS flush” orders.
Please be aware that if you don’t want this to happen to your patient, the order must be unchecked. A message has been submitted to RADAR if you want to see screenshots, or ask me and I can send them to you.
In addition, we are requesting that nurses be aware of and ask to turn off IV fluids when patients are taking PO well each morning.
If you have questions, contact Matthew.Tanner@salemhealth.org or 503-814-2048.