ANNEX A
MRSA - General information for the public
MRSA is one of many different kinds of infections associated with healthcare (in other words, healthcare associated infections - HAIs). This includes infections that can be caused by several different germs. These germs can cause, for example, diarrhoea, chest infections, wound infections after surgery, and blood poisoning. MRSA is more common in hospitals than anywhere else.
We must control these infections, including MRSA, for two simple reasons.
· We need to protect the health of patients and visitors.
· We also need to protect the health of staff.
Of course, not all infections can be prevented. However, NHS staff are doing a great deal to prevent and control these infections, including MRSA.
What is MRSA?
MRSA stands for meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
(Meticillin used to be known as Methicillin)
MRSA is a common type of germ, known as Staphylococcus aureus, that has become resistant to a group of antibiotics. It lives on the skin and in the noses of many people without causing them any harm.
Like many germs, Staphylococcus aureus only becomes a problem to people who are vulnerable to infection (for example, the elderly, the very young and those with conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease). The germ is more likely to cause infection if it is able to enter the body, such as through wounds, or tubes (for example, catheters) placed in the body for treatment.
Can MRSA be treated?
Yes. There are antibiotics which can treat it. A doctor should be in charge of this treatment. If someone is found to have MRSA while in a hospital, or another healthcare setting, they may be isolated in a side room during this time and their visitors given advice as to what to do.
How is MRSA spread?
MRSA is mainly spread from one person to another by hand contact. Washing your hands thoroughly is one of the most effective ways of stopping the spread of MRSA. You can also use alcohol hand rubs.
What is NHSScotland doing to control MRSA?
· Preventing and controlling infection is a national priority for NHSScotland. NHSScotland is committed to reducing the spread of infections, including MRSA.
o Staff have access to education, guidelines and advice on how to control infections such as MRSA. Having clean hands is vital!
o There are specialist infection control teams in place to reduce the spread of infections, including MRSA. However, every member of staff is responsible for controlling infections, and staff can provide advice and support for members of the public.
o Certain groups of patients may be screened - for example, swab samples may be taken for MRSA tests before people have their treatment or during treatment in hospital. If a patient is found to have MRSA while in hospital, it is likely that they will be separated from other patients to stop the bug from spreading.
o Healthcare staff may offer antiseptic skin cleansers and special ointments to some people who do not feel unwell, but are carrying MRSA in their noses and on their skin (or in other sites, for example, wounds).
What can I do to help prevent the spread of MRSA?
The most important thing you can do is wash and dry your hands before and after visiting, or when you enter or leave, any healthcare establishment. It is also very important to do this after going to the toilet. If there is alcohol hand rub provided in the healthcare establishment, use it. If you are a patient, having clean hands is just as important.
· Think about keeping patients safe before you visit someone in hospital. If you, or someone you live with, have a cold or diarrhoea, or if you feel unwell try to stay away until you're better.
· Wash and dry your hands before visiting a hospital ward, particularly after going to the toilet. If there is alcohol hand gel provided at the ward door or at the bedside, use it.
· Ask ward staff for advice before you bring in food or drink for someone you are visiting in hospital.
· If you visit someone in hospital, don't sit on their bed and keep the number of visitors to a minimum at any one time. Never touch dressings, drips, or other equipment around the bed.
· If you think NHS premises are not as clean as they should be, let the Sister or Charge Nurse know. If you think a healthcare worker has forgotten to wash their hands, remind them about this.
· Have a good routine of personal hygiene and cleanliness at home, especially when someone in the household is sick or has been in hospital.
· Only take antibiotics if they have been prescribed to you by a doctor, and complete the full course of treatment.
Where can I find out more information?
You can get information from staff or a member of the local infection control team.
Health Protection Scotland (formerly Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health) is a national centre that works with NHSScotland and many others on helping to prevent and control infections. You can see information on specific infections, including MRSA, on their website at www.hps.scot.nhs.uk.