Advice after your nerve block for surgery
On this page…
What is VRE?
Enterococci are bacteria that are commonly found in the bowels of most humans. There are many different species of enterococci, but only a few have the potential to cause infections in humans. More than 90% of infections due to enterococci are caused by just two species, Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis. Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) are enterococci that are resistant to glycopeptide antibiotics (vancomycin and teicoplanin). VRE are sometimes also referred to as GRE (Glycopeptide-Resistant Enterococci).
How is VRE spread?
VRE can be passed from person to person directly or indirectly via contaminated hands or objects, and can then be introduced into the mouth, wounds or other entry sites into the body. The second route of spread involves the spread of VRE bacteria that reside harmlessly in a person’s gut to other areas of the body where they are not normally found. The problem is usually first identified, when an individual presents in hospital and a specimen of urine, blood or a wound swab is submitted to the microbiology lab for culture.
Do these bacteria always cause infection?
No. People often carry the bacteria without any symptoms or harm (called ‘colonisation’), but can sometimes lead to infection.
What infections can VRE cause?
Infections can cause the same problems caused by sensitive strains of these bacteria. VRE commonly cause wound infections, bacteraemia (infection in the blood stream) and infections of the abdomen and pelvis. VRE may also cause infections in the bile duct, heart valves or the urinary tract. The resistant bacteria do not cause more dangerous infections than sensitive strains, although they may be more difficult to treat.
Can it be treated?
People who are simply colonised with the bacteria do not require treatment. In most people these bacteria will disappear on their own over time. However, despite being resistant to many of the commonly-used antibiotics, be reassured that treatment options are still available if an infection should occur. People may not have to stay in hospital until the infection is resolved. You may be able to go home when your general condition allows regardless of whether you are still carrying the bacteria or not.
How can the spread of these bacteria be prevented in hospital?
People in hospital are more at risk of infection because their body defences are weakened by illness, surgery, medication, and the presence of invasive devices such as urinary catheters and intravenous lines. It is preferable for patients with VRE to transfer to a single room. Hospital staff involved in direct personal care will wear gloves and aprons if there is a risk of contact with blood or body fluids.
The room will be cleaned daily and any equipment that is used on multiple patients will be cleaned after each use. The prevention of spread of bacteria relies mainly on everyone having good hand hygiene practices, particularly after using the toilet or caring for wounds or devices such as urinary catheters.
Visitors or relatives should not be affected, however they must clean their hands before and after visiting. Visitors must not sit on the beds and should not visit if they are unwell themselves.
What happens when I go home?
The presence of these bacteria, should not affect you or your family at home. Usual personal hygiene and household cleaning is sufficient and there are no restrictions to activities and visitors. If you have a wound and it becomes red, swollen or oozes, or you develop a fever, then please contact your GP as usual and tell them that you were informed you had VRE.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Infection prevention and control (IPC) service.
About this information
Service:
Infection prevention and control (IPC)
Reference:
LL/011
Approval date:
23 December 2024
Review date:
1 December 2027
Click ‘show accessibility tools’ at the bottom of the page
Then click ‘select language’
Alternative formats
You can use the accessibility toolbar at the bottom of your screen to:
-
Change the text size
-
Adjust the font
-
Modify the colour contrast
-
Use the translate function
If you would like this information in another format, such as Braille, audio, or easy read, please speak to a member of staff.
You can also print as well as download as PDF using the “Print this page” button at the end of the page.
Staff will print a copy for you on request
Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.