PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Hospitals across the country are taking steps to conserve their IV fluid supply after Hurricane Helene struck a manufacturing plant belonging to the biggest supplier. Baxter International, a medical technology company, said it would temporarily close production at its North Cove, North Carolina-based facility because of flooding from Helene. IV fluids deliver drugs or water with electrolytes directly into a patient’s bloodstream. They are also important for surgery. Mass General Brigham said it's expecting to get a smaller supply of IV fluids from Baxter International, however, they say anyone who needs it will get it. Helene Recovery: DONATE NOW to help hurricane victims "Someone who would be able to eat and drink, we're emphasizing oral hydration, if we don't need the IV fluid," Dr. Paul Biddinger said. "In some instances in which we might have spiked or prepared an IV fluid bag just in case, we're holding back on that so that we don't waste any units." It's unclear how long the hospital will be getting reduced supplies of IV fluids and how long Baxter will be offline. In Rhode Island, Lifespan is also keeping an eye on the IV fluid shortage. A spokesperson told 12 News they are "taking measures to conserve our existing supply, and are hopeful that the FDA will step in to address the shortages."