Changes in infection control practice to reduce MRSA infection

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Healthcare Management
• Clinical Nursing

Background:

• Rising incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections prompted a review.
• Focus on infection control practices within a cardiothoracic directorate at a South London teaching hospital.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of implemented changes on MRSA cross-infection rates.
• To identify key factors for sustaining reduced infection rates.

Main Methods:

• Review of infection control practices.
• Implementation of an educational initiative.
• Extension of admission screening policy.
• Establishment of a dedicated isolation nursing team.
• Development of a patient care pathway.

Main Results:

• A considerable reduction in cross-infection rates was achieved following the interventions.
• The study highlighted the effectiveness of a multi-faceted approach to infection control.

Conclusions:

• High-quality nursing care with an appropriate nurse-to-patient ratio is crucial.
• Continuous education on fundamental barrier nursing techniques is necessary for sustained low infection rates.