Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) is a germ that cannot be killed with the usual antibiotic medicines such as penicillin and cephalosporin. MSRA can be carried in the nose and on the skin. Anyone can be a carrier and not know it. MRSA is usually not harmful to healthy people but may cause infection in sick people.
Causes and Spreading MRSA
MRSA has been found in hospitals, long- term care facilities and in the community. It is mainly spread by contact with unwashed hands. To prevent spreading MRSA, it is important to practice good
hand hygiene before entering and on leaving your room.
The people most likely to get MRSA have been in a hospital or a long-term care home.
Staying at the hospital with MRSA
Because hospitals are filled with people who are sick and more likely to develop an infection, special precautions are needed to prevent the spread of this germ.
- You will be placed on Contact Precautions
- You may be moved to a private room and the people who visit or provide your care will be wearing a gown and gloves
- There will be a sign placed outside your door indicating what your caregivers/visitors will need to do
- Some of your supplies / equipment used in your care will be left in your room
- You will be asked to stay in your room, except for special circumstances
- Treatment will be ordered for you
- You may also need to take oral antibiotics
HHCC regularly monitors and reviews infection rates and uses this information to execute best practice protective measures and continually improve patient care and safety.
Access our MRSA rates