Mama Bear Going to Battle

I found a copy of the package insert for the 5% dextrose lactated ringer solution used in IVs. It's on the FDA website--incidentally, a great resource for finding things like that.

It reads, in part:

Baxter Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection, USP
in VIAFLEX Plastic Container

CONTRAINDICATIONS
Solutions containing dextrose may be contraindicated in patients with known allergy to corn or corn product.

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ADVERSE REACTIONS
Allergic reactions or anaphylactoid symptoms such as localized or generalized urticaria and pruritus; periorbital, facial, and/or laryngeal edema, coughing, sneezing, and/or difficulty with breathing have been reported during administration of Lactated Ringer’s and 5% Dextrose Injection, USP. The reporting frequency of these signs and symptoms is higher in women during pregnancy.

Reactions which may occur because of the solution or the technique of administration include febrile response, infection at the site of injection, venous thrombosis or phlebitis extending from the site of injection, extravasation, and hypervolemia.

If an adverse reaction does occur, discontinue the infusion, evaluate the patient, institute appropriate therapeutic countermeasures, and save the remainder of the fluid for examination if deemed necessary.

I also found out that there is an alternative readily available. Plain saline solution without the dextrose can be substituted, and should be available anywhere.

I'm starting a binder right now with a copy of the package insert, relevant parts circled in red. I'll add other relevant information and a statement from Baby E's pediatrician. I think he'll be happy to give us something saying that she has severe allergies, including corn and soy, and needs to completely avoid anything containing these ingredients.

That way I can keep that binder with me or in a readily accessible place, available at all times. I don't want to end up in the emergency room some day arguing with some lunkhead about why Baby E can't have an IV with dextrose in it.

I'm thinking I should probably get some kind of medical alert bracelet or something for Baby E to wear, too, since an IV would be one of the first things placed in a real emergency.

There's no way I'm going to let a doctor mainline corn into my highly allergic baby's system. Not this mama.