YAKIMA, Wash. – Shortages of essential medical supplies like IV fluids are posing challenges for hospitals in Yakima, Tri-Cities and across Washington following Hurricane Helene’s impact on a North Carolina plant.
MultiCare’s Yakima Memorial Hospital is among those affected, but they have a plan in place to ensure continued care for the community.
Marcus Perry, a communications specialist with MultiCare, explained the current situation at Yakima Memorial Hospital. “MultiCare’s Yakima Memorial Hospital is no exception to the shortage of IV fluids,” he said.
Perry stated that Yakima Memorial is implementing an IV Fluid Conservation Strategy, similar to other MultiCare hospitals in Washington. Employees are actively “evaluating the situation each day and working to conserve IV fluids while still providing medical attention.”
Over at Kadlec Hospital, there is a similar approach to the IV fluid shortage. Emily Volland, Kadlec’s communications director, noted the hospital is in continuous monitoring mode to manage inventory effectively.
Volland disclosed that one of Kadlec’s suppliers, Baxter, plays a major role in providing essential products, including IV solutions.
“The situation and impact to products are in a continuous monitoring cycle to make sure our inventory is available to meet the needs of our patients 24/7,” Volland said.
Kadlec is employing various strategies to mitigate any impact on patient care, such as conserving current supplies and using alternative fluids when needed.
Both hospitals are committed to finding solutions. They assure the public that patient care remains their top priority and that all necessary steps will be taken to manage resources efficiently.
