Kano bans IV fluid, blood transfusion at patent medicine stores

The Kano State Government has issued a ban on administering intravenous (IV) fluid infusions and blood transfusions at patent medicine stores across the state. This directive aims to curb unsafe and illegal medical practices and enhance the regulation of private health facilities.

Khadijah Hussein-Sa’id, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Kano State Private Health Institutions Management Agency (PHIMA), announced the ban during a sensitisation workshop for proprietors and medical directors of private health facilities. She clarified that patent medicine stores are classified as non-clinical retail outlets and are not authorized to perform invasive medical procedures, including IV fluid administration or blood transfusions.

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Any patent medicine store or unauthorised facility found administering IV fluids or conducting blood transfusions will face immediate closure and other sanctions in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.

Violators of this directive will face immediate closure and other sanctions in accordance with relevant laws. Hussein-Sa’id stressed that blood transfusions and IV fluid therapies are strictly to be administered in accredited health facilities under the supervision of qualified medical professionals. This measure aligns with the state government's priority of safeguarding the health and lives of its residents.

PHIMA urges the public to remain vigilant and report any patent medicine stores or unauthorized facilities engaging in these prohibited practices. Complaints, supported by evidence such as photographs or receipts, can be submitted directly to the PHIMA office. The agency is committed to strengthening the regulation of private health institutions and taking decisive action against unsafe, illegal, and unhygienic medical practices.

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The acting executive secretary said blood transfusions and IV fluid therapies must only be administered in accredited health facilities under the supervision of qualified medical professionals.