MDRO stands for multidrug-resistant organism. MDRO germs, called bacteria, include MRSA, VRE, ESBL, CRO, and KPC. These can all cause infections. But they can't be killed by many of the antibiotics that doctors commonly use to treat infections. This makes them harder to treat.
An infection with MDRO germs can be in any part of the body, including blood, organs, skin, and sites where surgery was done.
MDRO germs can be spread from one person to another through personal contact or from something that has the germs on it. It is commonly spread from the hands of someone who has an MDRO infection.
If you have an MDRO infection in the hospital, the hospital staff will:
Treat your infection.
Prevent the spread of the infection to others.
How is an MDRO infection treated?
If your doctor thinks you are infected with an MDRO, the doctor may:
Use special antibiotics to treat your infection.
Drain the infection and clean the area well.
Treat any underlying health problems.
How can you prevent the spread of an MDRO infection?
You, your doctor, the hospital staff, and your visitors all play a part in keeping the infection from spreading to others.
Isolation. Your doctor may want to keep you away from other people in the hospital. You may be in a special hospital room, called an isolation room. Visitors may be limited to prevent the infection from being carried outside your room. Children, pregnant women, and people who have a weakened immune system or other health conditions might not be allowed into the room. That's because they can be more likely to get a serious infection.
Hand-washing. Everyone who comes in the room will need to wash their hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, to help stop the germs from spreading.
Gloves, gown, and mask. Visitors and caregivers may have to use disposable gloves, wear a gown, and maybe wear a mask. This helps prevents the MDRO germs from spreading.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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