healthcare-associated infections (hai) program
Carbapenemase-producing Organisms (CPOs)
CPOs are bacteria that can become resistant to carbapenem and related antibiotics by producing carbapenemase enzymes. These enzymes break down the antibiotics, making them ineffective. Carbapenemase genes can be easily shared between different kinds of bacteria, leading to the rapid spread of antibiotic resistance. CPOs can cause serious, hard-to-treat infections and spread from person to person in healthcare settings.
Visit the resources below for more information.
Frequently Used Links
Data & Reporting
- CPO Reporting FAQ (PDF)
- Data & Reporting Webinars
Visit the Data & Reporting page to learn more.
Laboratory Testing
- Algorithm for Prioritizing Carbapenemase Testing (PDF)
- AR Lab Network WA Regional Lab Test Menu
- CDPH Microbial Diseases Laboratory (MDL) Submission Instructions and Forms
- MDL Carbapenemase Testing for Isolates FAQ
- Carbapenemase Testing Primer for Clinical for Laboratories (PDF)
- Lab Testing Webinars
Visit the Laboratory Testing page to learn more.
Prevention & Response
- Adherence Monitoring Tools
- CPO Quicksheet, Screening Decision Tree and Response Phases (PDF)
- Cohorting Guidance (PDF) and Cohorting Guidance for Skilled Nursing Facilities (PDF)
- Interfacility Transfer Communications Guide
- Prevention & Response Webinars
Visit the Prevention & Response page to learn more.
Public Health Partners
- Algorithm for Prioritizing Carbapenemase Testing of Carbapenem-resistant Organisms (PDF)
- CPO Quicksheet, Screening Decision Tree and Response Phases (PDF)
- Guidance for Short-stay Acute Care Hospitals on the Duration of Contact Precautions for Patients with Carbapenem-resistant or CPOs (PDF)
- Interfacility Transfer Communications Guide
Visit the Local Health Departments page to learn more.
Healthcare Facilities
- Algorithm for Prioritizing Carbapenemase Testing of CPOs (PDF)
- California Health Alert Network (CAHAN) HAI/AR Advisories
- Cohorting Guidance (PDF) and Cohorting Guidance for Skilled Nursing Facilities (PDF)
- Guidance for Short-stay Acute Care Hospitals on the Duration of Contact Precautions for Patients with Carbapenem-resistant or CPOs (PDF)
- Interfacility Transfer Communications Guide
Visit the Healthcare Facilities page to learn more.
Patients & Families
Visit the Patients & Families page to learn more.
Find Additional CDPH Resources
 Candida auris |  Antimicrobial Resistance |  Antimicrobial Stewardship |  Project Firstline |