Aiming to ensure maximum precaution in the use and handling of IV Fluids to avoid any adverse reactions in the country, the union health ministry has issued Guidelines on IV Fluid’s storage, distribution and administration.

Intravenous Fluids are liable to microbial growth, contamination of particulate matter leading to adverse drug reaction. LVPs are marketed in various primary packaging materials which needs careful handling to prevent  damage from cracks which leads to contamination of fluids meant for IV administration. It is in this context, the ministry has decided to issue the guideline which will ensure maximum precautions during temporary storage, transportation and handling.

The administration of intravenous fluids is one of the most common and universal interventions in medicine. Crystalloid solutions are the most frequently chosen, by far, with normal saline (NS) and lactated Ringer's (RL) both being frequent choices globally. Of interest, the choice of intravenous fluids has remained one of the most controversial subjects in critical care over the past half a century.

On the issue of distribution of IV solution, the Guidelines define that criteria for selection and agreement should include the transporter and the vehicles which meets the acceptance criteria defined to ensure safety of the product. During transportation transporter should ensure: that ?the product identity is not lost & also ensure that cartons and labelling are in good condition; adequate precaution should be taken against spillage, breakage or theft or other adverse influences; and the Product and its pack are secured and not subjected to unacceptable degree of heat, cold, light, moisture or other adverse influences nor to attack by microorganisms or pests.

To maintain proper practices to ensure quality, efficacy and safety of IV Fluids after receiving the same in the hospital store till the end users points, it is recommended in the Guidelines in the tune of recommendation made by the committee appointed by National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in the year 1999 that the head of hospital pharmacy with the approval and co-operation of the hospital pharmacy and therapeutics committee must develop a Hospital Formulary.

The Guidelines also give in detail about the good administration practices of IV Fluids.

Infusion therapy has increased in complexity over the years. These guidelines are intended to help individual practitioners ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care for their individual circumstances.