National Patient Safety Alert for Steriflex® No. 109 (1L) and No. 171 (2L): potassium chloride 0.15%, sodium chloride 0.45%, glucose 2.5% bags

National Patient Safety Alert: Steriflex® No. 109 (1L) and No. 171 (2L): potassium chloride 0.15%, sodium chloride 0.45%, glucose 2.5% Bags

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has published a National Patient Safety Alert regarding supply issues affecting products in the Steriflex® range.

Fresenius Kabi are transitioning their Steriflex® range of licensed and unlicensed IV fluid bags to DEHP free IV fluid bags in line with changes to reach regulations and have experienced a shortage during this change due to increased demands and lack of availability of raw materials.

There will be a shortage of the following products during the transitional period:

• Steriflex® No. 109 (1L): potassium chloride 0.15%, sodium chloride 0.45%, glucose 2.5% containing potassium 20mmol in 1L
•  Steriflex® No. 171 (2L): potassium chloride 0.15%, sodium chloride 0.45%, glucose 2.5% containing potassium 40mmol in 2L

A range of alternative IV fluid bags from other suppliers are available, but the use of these products will require review of protocols and prescriptions on electronic prescribing systems, and some may require additions to pre-made bags.

The National Patient Safety Alert has further background, clinical information and actions for providers.