IV fluid supply update

29 August 2024

ANZCA and ASA joint update statement about IV fluid supplies

On Monday 26 August, ANZCA President Professor David Story and ASA President Dr
Mark Sinclair met with representatives of the National Response Group, set up to assess
and monitor the situation regarding potential shortages of intravenous (IV) crystalloid
solutions in Australia.

While the situation varies from region to region, there have been concerns about
availability across Australia.

However, we now believe there are no critical shortages. No widespread cancellations of
elective procedures have been required, as was feared earlier on.

Nevertheless, anaesthetists are being asked to consider the need for perioperative IV
fluids on a patient-by-patient basis, and to be judicious in their use.

You can read the full statement here.