Learning Center
Nursing Adaptations in Infusion Practices During a Nationwide Intravenous Fluid Shortage [virtual]
This session explores the real-world implications of fluid shortages on infusion practice and nursing workflow, drawing from institutional data and frontline experience at a large academic medical center. Fluid conservation efforts created unintended clinical, safety, and workload consequences. This presentation will share lessons learned, multidisciplinary mitigation strategies, and implications for clinical practice during future fluid supply disruptions. Attendees will gain insight into how nurses can innovate, adapt, and advocate for safe patient care under constrained conditions.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to:
Describe the clinical and operational impact of nationwide IV fluid shortages on infusion nursing practice
Identify safety risks associated with converting secondary infusions to primary administration during fluid conservation
Evaluate the implications of increased IV pump alarms on nursing workload and vascular access device care
Discuss interdisciplinary strategies to conserve fluid resources while maintaining safe and effective medication delivery
Contact Hours: 1
CRNI® RUs: 2
Karen Meade, MS, APRN-CNS, AGCNS-BC, OCN
Clinical Nurse Specialist
The James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center
Karen Meade, MS, APRN-CNS, AGCNS-BC, OCN, is an oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist at The James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, with more than 8 years of experience in the Clinical Nurse Specialist role and prior experience as a Senior Infusion Quality Manager. Her work has focused on advancing infusion safety and quality, including leading the go-live of IV smart pump interoperability and supporting evidence-based infusion practices across diverse patient populations. Ms Meade is currently pursuing her PhD in Nursing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, with research interests centered on medication safety, infusion practices, and the use of data to inform oncology nursing care.
Key:
Complete
Next
Failed
Available
Locked