You are at risk of CPE
Date issued: September 22024
For review: September 2026
Ref: A-637/AKR/Learning disability team/You are risk of CPE
PDF: You are at risk of CPE.pdf [pdf] 265KB
What is CPE?
CPE are bacteria (bugs) that can live in your gut. If CPE gets in the wrong place like your bladder or blood it can cause an infection. Not everyone has CPE.
What happens if I get told I have CPE?
If you are healthy, you will not need any treatment.
If you are unwell, we will prescribe you the right antibiotics.
These antibiotics can only be given by into the vein. They do not come in a tablet.
Who is at risk?
Having been a patient in hospital abroad.
Being in a UK hospital that has had other patients with CPE.
Being exposed to a patient who has CPE.
How do you know I have CPE?
We will need to take one poo sample or a poo swab from your anus (bottom). It takes about two or three days to get the result.
How can we stop the spread?
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Staff will wash our hands using soap and water. We are happy for you to ask if we have washed our hands.
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Staff will wear apron and gloves when giving care.
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If you have CPE, you should be nursed in a single room.
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We will keep a record on your notes that you have CPE.
What can you do?
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Wash your hands with soap and water after going to the toilet and before and after eating.
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If you are nursed in a single room, follow the instructions you are given.
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Do not touch any wounds, or medical devices you have.
Can I have visitors?
Visitors will normally be able to visit. They must follow instructions from the staff.
Please speak to a member of staff if you have any questions.
Going home
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You need to wash your hands with soap and water, especially after going to the toilet.
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Anyone helping with your care needs to wash their hands with soap and water before and after caring for you.
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Any laundry can be washed as normal.
If being admitted for surgery for an overnight admission
You will need to bring a poo sample in the sample pot you have been given.
