Strategies for Surviving the IV Fluid Shortage: Antibiotic IV to PO Conversions & First Dose via IV Push

• 2017

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• Jenny Koehl; Erin McCreary

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This article provides strategies to manage the shortage of IV fluids caused by Hurricane Maria's impact on Puerto Rico. It suggests converting IV antibiotics to oral (PO) forms when possible and using IV push for first doses. Some infections require IV treatment, but many can be managed with PO medications like those for urinary tract infections or certain pneumonias. Benefits of switching include reduced infection risk and shorter hospital stays. The article also highlights safe practices for administering antibiotics via IV push, especially in emergency settings, while emphasizing teamwork among healthcare providers during shortages.

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Tags

Focus Area: Everyday Emergency

Audiences: Nurses; Physicians

Emergency Management Stage: Response

Keywords: Central Supply, Hospital; Administration, Intravenous; Fluid Therapy; Infusions, Intravenous; Pharmacokinetics; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Emergency Service, Hospital

Institutions: Academic Life in Emergency Medicine

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