The CDC recently updated its guidance on enhanced barrier precautions (EBP) for all health care settings, including nursing homes. The guidance expands to residents that trigger the use of EBP and indicates it should be followed for any resident in the facility with:
- An open wound requiring a dressing change
- Has an indwelling catheter for the duration of their stay
- Is colonized with multi-drug resistant organisms (MDROs) and contact precautions do not apply
The EBP requires the use of gown and gloves during high-contact resident care activities that provide opportunities for transfer of MDROs to staff hands and clothing. Use of eye protection may be necessary when splash or spray may occur but is not necessary in other situations.
Gown and gloves are not required for resident care activities other than high-contact resident care activities unless otherwise necessary for adherence to standard precautions. Residents on EBP are not restricted to their rooms or limited from participation in group activities.
CDC Guidance and Resources:
- Implementation of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use in Nursing Homes to Prevent Spread of Multidrug-resistant Organisms (MDROs)
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes
- Implementation of Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes Presentation
- Enhanced Barrier Precautions Letter to Nursing Home Residents, Families, Friends, and Volunteers
- Enhanced Barrier Precautions Letter to Nursing Home Staff