Which of the following active surveillance screening cultures would be appropriate for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (previously known as carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae) (CRE)?
Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) colonization is most commonly found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Therefore, rectal or peri-rectal cultures are recommended for active surveillance screening.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect?
B. Nares or axillary cultures – CRE is not primarily found in the nasal or axillary region; this method is more relevant for detecting MRSA.
C. Abscess or blood cultures – While CRE may be present in clinical infections, these cultures are not used for screening asymptomatic carriers.
D. Throat or nasopharyngeal cultures – CRE does not commonly colonize the upper respiratory tract, so these are not ideal for active screening.
CBIC Infection Control Reference
The CDC and APIC guidelines emphasize rectal or peri-rectal swabbing as the most effective active surveillance method for CRE detection.
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