A global recall of infusion pumps due to sterilisation concerns is affecting New Zealand's intensive care units.
The Ministry of Health says the recall is due to a lack of quality assurance about consumable parts for the pumps, used to get fluids into a patient's body, means their sterility can't be guaranteed.
There are more than 3000 pumps across New Zealand that use the consumables, the ministry said, and it will now centralise supply management.
"Some DHBs are likely to need to continue using the pumps in some instances where other alternatives aren't immediately available," a ministry spokesperson told Newshub.
An expert clinical group is being set up to provide advice in the coming weeks, the spokesperson said.
"This is a global recall taking place in a challenging market characterised by increased demand for products and freight delays due to COVID-19.
"Alternatives include other infusion pumps or other options such as injecting medicines directly or using gravity-fed drips.
"New Zealand's approach is in line with that taken by other comparable countries."
The spokesperson said anyone wanting more information should call Healthline on 0800 611 116.
