Enhanced Barrier Precautions Now Required

Enhanced barrier precautions (EBP) are now required by CMS for residents with chronic wounds or indwelling medical devices during high-contact resident care activities regardless of their multi drug-resistant organism  (MRDO) status.

The new guidelines list the specific chronic wounds and high-contact resident care activities.

Required Measures for EBP are: Gloves and gown prior to the high-contact care activity, change PPE before caring for another resident, face protection if performing activity with risk of splash or spray.

The LTCS book Infection Control Program for Long Term Care has been updated to reflect the new guidelines.