The Infection Control and Prevention committee has established a program to prevent the transmission of bacteria in the hospital. A component of this prevention program includes periodic screening of patients in the hospital and Renaissance unit for MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staph aureus). This information is used to identify patients who may be "colonized" with the bacteria.
Individuals can be "colonized" in their nose with different kinds of bacteria. Colonization means that you have the bacteria in your nose but it is not causing any infection. Since the nose filters all the air prior to entering the lungs, individuals can be colonized with many types of bacteria. It is important to always use tissues when touching the nose, discard the tissues in the trash and to clean your hands immediately.
MRSA is Staph bacteria normally found on the body, which is resistant to a certain antibiotic (Methicillin)
The best means to prevent the spread of MRSA and H1N1 (commonly known as Swine flu) is through proper hand hygiene. Cleanse your hands with alcohol hand rub or with soap and water.
We hope this information will help you understand MRSA and the hospital program to provide a safe environment for all patients/residents.
Learn more about how to stop the spread of germs, how to properly clean your hands and CDC Hand Hygiene guidelines for healthcare settings by clicking on Hand Hygiene at Sibley under the Events/Programs section.
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