Saline Solution Intended for Training Purposes Leads to Deaths, Illnesses
The Food and Drug Administration has launched an investigation into a saline solution that was intended for training purposes only but mistakenly was used in patient care. Thus far, one person has died while many more have fallen ill as a result. The saline solution was not sterile. According to the NY Times, “It was shipped to medical clinics, surgical centers and urgent care facilities, some of which administered it to patients. More than 40 people are known to have received infusions, according to federal health officials. Many suffered fever, chills, tremors and headaches. So far cases have been reported in seven states: Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, North Carolina, New York and Colorado.” Wallcur, a San Diego-based company, recalled different-size bags of its saline solution and distilled water on Jan. 7.
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