Introduction:

Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) initially was resistant to an antibiotic methicillin a form of penicillin. This form a Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) now appears to be resistant to many other antibiotics, it is often referred to as “multi-resistant” S. aureus. It should be noted MRSA is not the only antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Background:

Initially, an infection with MRSA was associated with exposure to health care industry. However, other MRSA strains have evolved that affect previously healthy individuals who have not had contact with health-care facilities.

MRSA can only be diagnosed through laboratory testing.

Transmission:

Contact with an infected individual. Contact with items that have been physical exposed with an infected person, examples: sports equipment and laundry. These items can be cleaned and sanitized to reduce the chance of exposure to others.

Prevention:

A. Hand washing is the single best step to preventing the infection.
The process:
1. Soap and water
2. Vigorous washing of the hands for 20 seconds.
3. Rinse with fresh water
4. Turn the water valve off with a paper towel

B. Trim finger nails to allow ease of cleaning.


Web site information:


www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/health/antibiotic_resistance/mrsa

www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/health/antibiotic_resistance/mrsa/MRSApocketcard.pdf

www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_Invasive_FS.html