A client tests positive for vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in the GI tract. What is the priority nursing intervention to prevent spread?

A client tests positive for vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in the GI tract. What is the priority nursing intervention to prevent spread?

• A. Initiate airborne isolation
• B. Isolate the client with the positive culture in contact precautions immediately
• C. Place the patient in standard precautions only
• D. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics to all clients

Answer: (B)

The main idea is preventing spread of a multidrug-resistant organism by using the appropriate precautions. VRE found in the GI tract can shed bacteria onto hands, surfaces, and equipment, so the priority is to implement contact precautions immediately to interrupt transmission. This means placing the patient in a private room if possible, and using gloves and a gown for all contact with the patient or their environment, along with strict hand hygiene and dedicating or properly cleaning equipment between patients. Airborne precautions aren’t needed because VRE isn’t transmitted through aerosols, and standard precautions alone don’t address the extra risk posed by MDROs. Giving broad-spectrum antibiotics to everyone doesn’t prevent spread and can worsen resistance; management should focus on infection control measures and targeted treatment as indicated.

The main idea is preventing spread of a multidrug-resistant organism by using the appropriate precautions. VRE found in the GI tract can shed bacteria onto hands, surfaces, and equipment, so the priority is to implement contact precautions immediately to interrupt transmission. This means placing the patient in a private room if possible, and using gloves and a gown for all contact with the patient or their environment, along with strict hand hygiene and dedicating or properly cleaning equipment between patients. Airborne precautions aren’t needed because VRE isn’t transmitted through aerosols, and standard precautions alone don’t address the extra risk posed by MDROs. Giving broad-spectrum antibiotics to everyone doesn’t prevent spread and can worsen resistance; management should focus on infection control measures and targeted treatment as indicated.