Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus carrier status in the reanimation units and related risk factors.

We investigated rectal vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) colonization rates in the intensive care unit of our hospital. Within the 2-year period, of the 112 patients, VRE was isolated in 21 (18.8%). VRE carriers had significantly higher rates of nasogastric tube or central venous catheter use; more frequent use of third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, piperacillin/tazobactam, and levofloxacine; and longer stays in the reanimation unit.