A survey of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) management in hospices/palliative care units

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Palliative Care Medicine
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant healthcare challenge.
• Palliative care units require specific protocols for managing infections like MRSA.
• Understanding current MRSA management practices in these settings is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey MRSA management protocols in specialist palliative care in-patient units in southern England.
• To assess the implementation and adherence to these protocols.
• To identify gaps in MRSA management and staff training.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based survey was distributed to 63 specialist palliative care in-patient units.
• An 87% response rate was achieved, providing data on MRSA management practices.
• Data analysis focused on protocol availability, staff training, screening, isolation, and eradication strategies.

Main Results:

• 95% of units had MRSA management protocols, but only 59% provided staff training.
• MRSA screening was performed by 13% of units.
• Infection control precautions, including isolation (86%) and activity restriction (46%), varied significantly.
• 41% of respondents questioned the relevance of eradication protocols in hospices.

Conclusions:

• While most palliative care units have MRSA protocols, significant gaps exist in staff training and consistent implementation of infection control measures.
• The effectiveness and relevance of MRSA eradication protocols in hospice settings require further consideration.
• The impact of MRSA on the quality of life and morbidity in palliative care patients remains an understudied area.