A reduction in Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) by half in a large Australian teaching hospital. A nurse's view.

Maxine Thomson and Margaret Ann Palmer

[Abstract]

ABSTRACT

Since 1978, strains of MRSA have spread within and between health care institutions, particularly teaching hospitals on the cast coast of Australia. Extant literature states that MRSA became prevalent primarily because of inadequate standards of hygiene. This promoted cross infection. Secondly, the widespread inappropriate selection of antibiotics exerts selection pressure in favour of the development and proliferation of MRSA. By 1985, MRSA detection had reached epidemic proportions in a large teaching hospital - 422 cases were detected as either colonising or infected with MRSA. 1987 saw a 50% reduction in the detection of MRSA to 206 cases. A report of the clinical features, microbiological surveillance and infection control strategies followed from 1980 to 1986, is outlined. Infection control strategies implemented in early 1986 are presented and the outcome of such changes in relation to MRSA detection and pharmaceutical expenditure is considered.

Accepted for publication by the Infection Control Journal, N.S.W.

Maxine Thomson, RN, B. Bus.. (Social Admin.), Assistant Director of Nursing, Infection Control.

Margaret Ann Palmer, RN, CM, Cardiothoracic Certificate. Admission Officer.

St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia.

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This is an abstract only.

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