MRSA infections

Question 1

Describe MRSA?

Answer 1

• S. aureus which produces B-lactamase
  
  • => resistance to beta lactam antibiotics
• Target modification resistance:
  
  • Altered penicillin binding protein

Question 2

Name some risk factors for MRSA colonisation?

Answer 2

• Antibiotic exposure
• Hospital stays
• Surgery
• Nursing home residence

Question 3

Usualy treatment for MRSA infections?

Answer 3

• Vancomycin
• Teicoplanin
• Oral agents:
  
  • Clindamycin, co-trimoxazole, doxycycline

Question 4

Describe some methods of MRSA prevention?

Answer 4

• Barrier precautations
• Hand hygiene
• Decolonization
  
  • Mupirocin, chlorhexidine, tea tree oil)
• Antimicrobial stewardship

Question 5

Name some antibiotics that MRSA would be resistant to?

Answer 5

• Penicillins
• Cephalosporins
• Carbapenems

Question 6

Describe 4 methods of ensuring antimicrobial stewardship?

Answer 6

• Monitor, evaluate and feedback on prescribing, keeping to date with local and national guideliness
• Reivew patient safety events (avoidable infection, complications of antibiotic therapy)
• Education and decision support systems for prescribers
• Antibiotic pack sizes that correspond to appropriate course lengths