Vancomycin-resistant enterococci: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care for possible severe infection or sepsis.
Warning signs include difficulty breathing, new confusion, fainting, severe drowsiness, cold or blotchy skin, very little urine, or a rapid decline in your condition.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Arrange prompt medical advice if you have known VRE and develop symptoms that could represent an infection, such as:
Fever or chills
Pain or burning when urinating
Increasing wound redness, swelling, pain, or drainage
Persistent abdominal pain or vomiting
New or worsening symptoms around a catheter or intravenous line
Do not wait for a routine appointment if these symptoms are present.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Contact your healthcare team during routine follow-up if you have questions about a positive screening result, contact precautions, returning to work, or visiting a healthcare facility.
A positive colonization result without symptoms is not usually an emergency.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Vancomycin-resistant enterococci. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.