Introduction

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics. It can cause skin infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia. MRSA is often found in hospitals and other healthcare settings, but it can also be found in the community.

Clinical Protocol

The following is a clinical protocol for seeing patients with a potential MRSA infection:

• Triage: Patients with a potential MRSA infection should be triaged separately from other patients. The triage nurse should assess the patient’s symptoms and determine if they are at high risk for MRSA.
• Check-in: The front desk should have a separate check-in area for patients with a potential MRSA infection. The patient should be asked about their symptoms and if they have been in contact with anyone who has MRSA.
• Waiting area: Patients with a potential MRSA infection should wait in a separate waiting area. The waiting area should be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
• Vitals: Vital signs should be taken in a separate room. The staff should wear gloves and a gown when taking vital signs.
• Examination: The patient should be examined in a separate room. The staff should wear gloves, a gown, and a mask when examining the patient.
• Treatment: The patient should be treated according to the standard of care for MRSA.
• Discharge: The patient should be discharged from the clinic with instructions on how to prevent the spread of MRSA.

Special Precautions

The following are special precautions that should be taken when seeing patients with a potential MRSA infection:

• Handwashing: Handwashing is the most important way to prevent the spread of MRSA. The staff should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after seeing each patient.
• Gloves: Gloves should be worn when coming into contact with any body fluids or secretions from the patient.
• Gown: A gown should be worn when there is a risk of coming into contact with the patient’s clothing or bedding.
• Mask: A mask should be worn when there is a risk of coming into contact with the patient’s respiratory secretions.
• Disinfection: All surfaces that the patient comes into contact with should be cleaned and disinfected after the patient leaves.

Conclusion

By following these precautions, the spread of MRSA can be prevented. This will help to protect the patients, the staff, and the community.

Additional Thoughts

• Educating patients: Patients with a potential MRSA infection should be educated about how to prevent the spread of the bacteria. They should be instructed to wash their hands frequently and to avoid contact with other people who are sick.
• Monitoring patients: Patients with a potential MRSA infection should be monitored closely for signs of infection. If the patient develops any symptoms, they should be seen by a doctor immediately.
• Reporting cases: All cases of MRSA should be reported to the local health department. This will help to track the spread of the bacteria and to prevent outbreaks.