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Review of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus with special reference to handling of surgical patients
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Abstract:
If used rationally, antibiotics can cure most bacterial infections. However, there is an increasing tendency globally for bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics. In Kenya, the occurrence of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) is becoming increasingly prevalent. Penicillin, despite its narrow antibacterial spectrum, is still widely used in developing countries in prophylaxis as well as in curative settings. In surgical patients, antibiotic resistance is seen in: patients who are immunosuppressed, patients who have extensive burns and compound fractures, patients requiring prolonged hospital stay and those with malnutrition and low serum albumen levels. Various forms of theatre inadequacies may also result into antibiotic resistance. There are many methods of controlling the spread of MRSA and they should be put into place in surgical units with the assistance of infection control units. This paper is a review of MRSA as regards its history, prevalence, modes of transmission, surveillance, control measures, treatment and implications for both health care workers and patients.
Insights
Antibiotic resistance is a growing global concern, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Kenya. This review covers MRSA
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Antibiotic resistance is a significant global health challenge.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is increasingly prevalent in Kenya.
- Penicillin remains widely used in developing countries despite resistance concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history, prevalence, and transmission of MRSA.
- To explore surveillance, control measures, and treatment of MRSA.
- To discuss the implications of MRSA for healthcare workers and patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of MRSA.
- Analysis of MRSA prevalence and risk factors.
- Examination of MRSA control and treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- MRSA poses a significant threat, especially in surgical patients with specific risk factors.
- Inadequate surgical theatre conditions can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
- Effective control measures are crucial for surgical units.
Conclusions:
- Controlling MRSA spread requires implementing comprehensive strategies in surgical settings.
- Infection control units play a vital role in managing MRSA.
- Understanding MRSA's epidemiology and control is essential for patient and healthcare worker safety.