Supply Issues Multiple Suppliers Swabs, Cotton Wool and Bandages (ICN 3307)

• The supply issue with swabs, cotton wool and bandages from multiple suppliers is continuing.
• Two further products are now suspended and unavailable to order:
  • EGP088 – Bandage tubular elasticated viscose 3m roll
  • ENI185 – Swab gauze type 13 light BP non-sterile.
• Four affected products remain suspended and unavailable to order:
  • EGJ237 – Bandage tubular elasticated viscose 10m roll
  • EMQ102 – Swab gauze x-ray detectable stitched and taped tied non-sterile
  • ENI183 – Swab gauze type 13 light BP non-sterile
  • ENU038 – Balls non-woven.
• Three affected products are now subject to intermittent supply:
  • EMI189 – Swab gauze x-ray detectable tied 5s BP sterile
  • ENI256 – Swab gauze x-ray detectable tied 5s BP sterile
  • ENK165 – Medical non-woven swab sterile.
• Nine products are now affected in total.
• There are potential indirect alternatives for some of the products. These products are available to order through our online catalogue.
• See our Downloads ▼ section to access the product listing for further information on the affected product codes and potential alternatives.
• The supply issue is now anticipated to be resolved by 31 July 2026.

Change:

• Multiple suppliers have informed us of supply issues across the General Wound Care framework currently affecting swabs, cotton wool and bandages.
• Seven product codes are now suspended and unavailable to order:
  • EGJ237 – Bandage tubular elasticated viscose 10m roll
  • EMI189 – Swab gauze x-ray detectable tied 5s BP sterile
  • EMQ102 – Swab gauze x-ray detectable stitched and taped tied 5s BP non-sterile
  • ENI183 – Swab gauze type 13 light BP non-sterile
  • ENI256 – Swab gauze x-ray detectable tied 5s BP sterile
  • ENK165 – Medical non-woven swab sterile
  • ENU038 – Balls non-woven.
• The supply issues are due to a combination of increased demand, extended lead times and delayed shipping.
• Over the next couple of months, it is likely some stocked products on the General Wound Care framework coming in and out of stock until the new framework goes live.

Impact:          

• Seven affected product codes are currently suspended and unavailable to order.
• Our Category team is closely monitoring the situation and are meeting regularly with affected suppliers to understand the latest supply position.
• Customers are encouraged to order as normal and review the product listing for potential alternatives should the need arise.
• There are potential indirect alternatives for some of the products. These products are available to order through our online catalogue.
• However, some of these products may also be subject to intermittent supply.
• See our Downloads ▼ section to access the product listing for further information on the affected product codes and potential alternatives.
• To support customers during these short-term disruptions this ICN will be updated every two weeks.
• The supply issue is anticipated to be resolved by 24 June 2026.

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.
• 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.