Module 9 Part 2 MRSA

Question 1

What does CA MRSA stand for and who does it affect

Answer 1

CA MRSA stands for Community Acquired MRSA and it affects individuals who haven’t been hospitalized in the last 12 months typically causing skin infections in healthy younger people

Question 2

What is HA-MRSA, and where is it commonly found?

Answer 2

HA MRSA, or Healthcare-Acquired MRSA, primarily infects hospital patients and those in non-hospital healthcare facilities, often found in areas like the anterior nares, groin, skin ulcers, and IV sites.

Question 3

What is colonization in the context of MRSA, and is decolonization typically recommended?

Answer 3

Colonization refers to MRSA presence in or on the body without clinical signs or symptoms. Decolonization is generally not recommended due to the risk of re-colonization.

Question 4

Why is it important to emphasize hand hygiene in managing MRSA patients?

Answer 4

MRSA is primarily spread through direct physical contact, so hand hygiene is crucial in preventing its spread.

Question 5

What precautions should caregivers take at home when dealing with MRSA patients?

Answer 5

Caregivers should wash their hands after contact, use towels only once, avoid sharing personal items, wear disposable gloves for expected contact with body fluids, change soiled linens, clean the patient’s environment, and inform healthcare personnel about the patient’s MRSA status.

Question 6

What precautions should be followed in a facility when MRSA patients are present?

Answer 6

Casual contact is generally acceptable, and visitors should wash their hands. Disposable gloves should be worn if expecting contact with body fluids, and gowns may be necessary for excessive contact. Infants and children can have casual contact with MRSA patients.