Mandatory Synthesis Essay

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus, also known as, S. aureus. S. aureus is a gram positive bacteria found on the skin and in warm, moist areas such as in the armpit, groin, perineum and in the nose (Nazarko, 2014, p. 376). Under normal conditions, it is considered a part of the body’s normal flora. Since the identification of S. aureus in 1941, it has been treated with 10 different antibiotics and has been proven resistant to all of them (Nazarko, 2014, p. 379). In its early stages, it was called a “superbug” because of its multi-drug resistance Jacobs, 2014, p. 624). It’s resistance to methicillin was first identified in the United Kingdom in 1961 and in the United States in 1968 (Jacobs, 2014, P. 627). Although it has has been treated with other medications since it has maintained its name. The CDC

The most important and easiest thing is proper hand washing. Starting in 2010, hospitals installed not only handwashing campaigns but also audits to make sure that the standards were being met. (Nazarko, 2014, p. 380). As important as washing hands is good personal hygiene. Being clean, having clean hair that is up and controlled and hands that are free of sores, wounds or dryness are also important. As techs, we should also be careful to wash and sterilize equipment including the bucky and the exam table between each patient. Another way to prevent the spread of infection is to strictly follow standard precautions when dealing with infusions, catheters or any invasive devices. Finally, taking a complete medical history, knowing the signs of the infection, educating patients and co-workers may also help. Following all of the guidelines may not fully end MRSA but if everyone does their part, it should make the health care environment safer to be in and hopefully help to decrease the number of