Prevention of MRSA

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The chance of bacteria becoming resistant to drug treatment can be reduced by using antibiotics carefully. Whenever possible, a germâ€™s reaction to various antibiotics should be tested to make sure the most effective antibiotic is given. The full course of antibiotics should always be taken.

MRSA is usually passed on by human contact, often from the skin of the hands. Therefore hands should always be thoroughly washed and disposable gloves worn when changing dressings etc. to prevent spreading the germ to other people.

Hospital staff who come into contact with patients should maintain very high standards of hygiene and take extra care when treating patients with MRSA. Before examining a patient, hospital staff should make sure they have washed their hands or cleaned them with a special alcohol rub or gel. Alcohol hand gel dispensers may also be placed by patientsâ€™ beds and at the entrance to clinical areas for use by staff and visitors. If you are concerned about hygiene, donâ€™t be afraid to ask the doctor or nurse treating you if they have washed their hands.

When in hospital, you can reduce your risk of infection by taking sensible precautions such as:

Keeping your hands and body clean. Take soap, a flannel and moist hand-wipes with you, as well as your own razor.
Always wash your hands after using the toilet or commode (many hospitals now routinely offer a hand-wipe).
Always wash your hands or clean them with a hand-wipe immediately before and after eating a meal.
Make sure your bed area is regularly cleaned and report any unclean toilet or bathroom facilities to staff.