A patient's blood culture report notes the presence of vancomycin resistant enterococcus.

The nurse should place the patient in contact isolation, which is a type of precaution used to prevent the transmission of microorganisms that are spread by direct or indirect contact with the patient or the patient’s environment. Contact isolation requires the use of gloves and gowns when entering the patient’s room, as well as dedicated patient-care equipment and proper hand hygiene. Vancomycin resistant enterococcus (VRE) is a type of bacteria that is resistant to the antibiotic vancomycin and can cause infections in various sites, such as the urinary tract, bloodstream, or wounds. VRE can be spread by contact with contaminated surfaces, equipment, or hands.

References:

AACN. (2023). CCRN (Adult) Exam Handbook. Retrieved from [CCRN Exam Handbook], p. 18.

AACN. (2023). CCRN (Adult) Exam Blueprint. Retrieved from [CCRN Exam Blueprint], p. 2.

CDC. (2019). Guidelines for Isolation Precautions: Preventing Transmission of Infectious Agents in Healthcare Settings. Retrieved from [CDC Guidelines], p. 69-70.

CDC. (2019). Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) and the Clinical Laboratory. Retrieved from [CDC Fact Sheet], p. 1-2.