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Victorian guideline on CPO for residential care facilities

Key messages

  • In December 2019, carbapenemase-producing Acinetobacter spp (CPA) and carbapenemase-producing Pseudomonas spp (CPP) isolates were made notifiable. This was in addition to carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) which were made notifiable in 2017.
  • Version 1.1 of this guideline replaces the previous version. The primary update is to note the new secure online CPO surveillance data collection form and updated printable version. Other minor changes are highlighted in the document.
  • This guideline applies to all RCFs in Victoria.
  • The term 'RCF' refers to any public or private aged care, disability services or other congruent accommodation setting in Victoria where residents are provided with personal care or healthcare by facility staff.
  • The recommendations in this guideline are relevant for a wide range of health professionals, including medical staff, nursing and allied health staff, personal care attendants and disability support staff.
  • All CPO surveillance forms should be completed via the secure online form or faxed to the department on 1300 651 170. Enquiries may be directed to amr.secretariat@health.vic.gov.au.

The Victorian guideline on CPO for RCFs contains the following information:

  • background to CPOs in Victoria
  • governance requirements, which includes roles and responsibilities for RCFs, the Department of Health and Local Public Health Units
  • screening, detection and investigation requirements for CPO
  • infection prevention and control management strategies for CPO
  • actions required in the event of an outbreak of CPO in an RCF.
Victorian guideline on CPO for RCFs - V1.1
Word 1.61 MB
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Appendix C of the guideline includes a sample self-audit checklist for RCFs to help determine compliance with general infection prevention and control measures, as well as specific CPO infection control requirements.

Templates, forms and other supporting resources referred to within the guideline are available to be downloaded below.

CPO surveillance data collection forms

The CPO surveillance data collection form is to be used for all confirmed human CPO isolates. This can be completed either via the secure online form or by faxing the printable version to the department on 1300 651 170.

The CPO surveillance data collection form was updated in January 2025. If using the printable form, please ensure it is the updated version.

Enquiries may be directed to amr.secretariat@health.vic.gov.au

CPO surveillance form
PDF 197.25 KB
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Patient, staff and clinician information sheets

CPO - Information for staff of RCFs
Word 146.98 KB
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CPO - Information for residents, family and carers
Word 142.63 KB
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CPO - information for clinicians
Word 133.85 KB
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Screening for CPO – Information for staff
Word 143.91 KB
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Screening for CPO – Information for residents
Word 140.14 KB
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Updated