Rosemont, Ill. (AANA)—The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) issued the following statement in response to potential medical supply interruptions due to the longshoremen port strike that began October 1, 2024:
AANA is deeply concerned by potential impacts to patient care and safety that can be caused by supply chain interruptions due to both an ongoing longshoreman strike at eastern and southern ports and the continued impact of Hurricane Helene on healthcare facilities and medical supply manufacturers.
As healthcare relies heavily on the supply chain, institutions could face severe shortages in materials essential for patient care such as medical supplies and pharmaceuticals. This disruption may increase the risk of delayed surgeries or treatment interruptions.
AANA urges all healthcare professionals and facilities to mitigate these potential impacts through key strategies outlined by a joint communication from the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) and the Association of Healthcare Value Analysis Professionals (AHVAP). This includes reviewing inventories and working with suppliers to identify delays and alternatives early. Additionally, report any drug shortages your facility is experiencing to the FDA Drug Shortages team.
AANA will continue to monitor this situation to gauge the impact on anesthesia delivery and patient safety. Your steadfast commitment and dedication to patient safety makes a significant difference in the lives of our patients and is a cornerstone of the Nurse Anesthesiology profession.
We call on all parties to come to a resolution that is acceptable to both sides so that patients continue to receive the supplies they need and recovery of hurricane devastation can continue.