Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE)

What is it? Enterobacterales is the name given to a family of bacteria that normally lives in the human gut. Some of these bacteria produce enzymes, called carbapenemases, which stop antibiotics from working against the bacteria. Bacteria that produce these enzymes are resistant to most types of antibiotics.  Carbapenem resistance...

Treatment of ESBLs

If an ESBL infection is identified Nursing Care Assess for further signs of infection Ensure contact precautions are taken with residents infected or colonized with ESBL When possible, residents with ESBL will have a single room ESBL residents will be attended by healthcare workers wearing gloves and gowns Visitors might...

Management of MRSA

Residents colonised or infected with MRSA, who have risk factors for transmission, or where basic personal hygiene practices may be compromised by cognitive or functional impairment, are more likely to contaminate their environment.    Points to remember Particular emphasis should be placed on hand hygiene. If the resident's cognitive state...

Management of VRE

Where a resident is colonised or infected with VRE and there are risk factors for transmission, or where basic personal hygiene practices may be compromised by cognitive or functional impairment, there is a risk that they could contaminate their environment.    VRE is spread in a similar way to other...

Extended spectrum beta lactamases (ESBLs)

What is it? Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) are enzymes produced by a range of bacteria that can break down some types of antibiotics, preventing the antibiotic from killing the bacteria. Bacteria that produce these enzymes usually reside in the bowel. The most common ESBL bacteria are Klebsiella species, E. coli, Proteus...

Treatment of CRE

If a CRE infection has been identified, refer symptoms to the registered nurse   Nursing care Assess for further signs of infection Ensure contact precautions are taken with residents infected or colonised with CRE When possible, residents with CRE will have a single room PPE should be worn when caring...