VRE can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. Contact isolation is used for patients colonized or infected with VRE to prevent the spread of this bacteria. Two patients with VRE can share a room. The patient may leave the room for medically essential purposes only. Antimicrobial soap for washing hands is used by healthcare providers.
Staff wear gloves and a gown when they plan to touch the patient or a contaminated object.
Certain items such as a thermomoter and a stethoscope are used only for the isolated patient. Other items are carfully disinfected before being used for other patients. Hands are washed carefully. The risk of VRE infection is low in healthy adults and children. Hands should be washed carefully before leaving the room.