Supply Issues GBUK Healthcare NRFit Butterfly Needles FTR3228, FTR3229 and FTR3230 (ICN 2539)

Change:

• The supplier GBUK Healthcare has informed us of a supply issue with its NRFit Butterfly Needle products.
• The supply issue is due to increased demand and lead times.
• The three product codes affected are:
  • FTR3228 – NRFit Butterfly Needle 27G x 19mm
  • FTR3229 – NRFit Butterfly Needle 25G x 19mm
  • FTR3230 – NRFit Butterfly Needle 21G x 19mm with one way valve.
• Following the release of the National Patient Safety Alert, demand on NRFit lines has increased.
• https://www.supplychain.nhs.uk/news-article/transition-to-nrfit-connectors-for-intrathecal-and-epidural-procedures-and-delivery-of-regional-blocks/

Impact:          

• The Blue Diamond products are still available to order on an intermittent supply basis.
• The products are alternatives for themselves. Unfortunately, there are no other NRFit Butterfly Needles available from our online catalogue.
• There are Luer alternatives that customers could use if they were deemed clinically acceptable which are detailed in the Luer tab of the product listing:
  • FSB85197 – Safety Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Green 21G x 19mm with 9cm Tube
  • FSB85195 – Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Grey 27G x 13mm 20cm Tube
  • FSB85233 – Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Orange 25G x 19mm with 7cm Tube
  • FSB85236 – Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Grey 27G x 19mm with 7cm Tube
  • FSB85240 – Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Green 21G x 19mm with 7cm Tube
  • FSB85305 – Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Grey 27G x 7cm tube
  • FSB85317 – Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Orange 25G x 7cm tube
  • FSB85320 – Metal Needle Winged Device with Extension Green 21G x 7cm tube.
• See our Downloads ▼ section to access the product listing for further information on the affected product codes and potential alternatives.
• FTR3230 is anticipated to be resolved by 31 May 2024.
• FTR3228 and FTR3229 are anticipated to be resolved by 30 June 2024.
• To ensure demand of NRFit products is successfully managed, customers are reminded that they should submit demand capture forms for any changes they wish to make. This will help to improve the availability of NRFit devices and allows suppliers to manage demand accurately.

Next Steps:              

• Customers are advised to log into our website to view the product listing for further information on the affected product codes and potential alternatives.
• The continuing supply issue is being monitored in conjunction with the supplier and we will continue to review the stock situation to minimise further disruption and update this ICN with the latest information as it becomes available.
• However, as this is currently a disrupted market and supply is subject to rapid change, the alternatives offered may also be experiencing temporary supply issues and therefore, customers may need to consider clinically reviewing all additional alternatives provided.
• If you have any further questions, please contact your local NHS Supply Chain Customer Services Advisor.

Please note that due to the clinical nature of these alternative products, we advise you to consult your own clinical experts to ensure suitability for your organisations use of these products.