How to Manage MRSA

MRSA, also known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a strain of staph infection that usually occurs in hospitals, nursing homes or other health care settings. It generally causes serious skin and soft tissue infections, as well as a severe form of pneumonia. MRSA is easily transmitted via skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Risk factors include working in the healthcare field, a weakened immune system and poor hygiene. While MRSA is resistant to some antibiotics, effective treatments are available and should be started as soon as possible.

Instructions

• 1

  Monitor skin wounds such as cuts, scrapes, insect bites and pimples. Seek medical attention if a skin wound becomes infected. If a wound begins to seep with pus, the area appears red and is warm and tender, or fever is present, ask to have the infection tested for MRSA before beginning antibiotic treatment. MRSA is resistant to certain medications that are used to treat other strains of staph infection. Beginning a course of antibiotic treatment with a drug that is not effective against MRSA may lead to serious illness and a more resistant form of the bacteria.

• 2

  Clean the infected area thoroughly and frequently. Apply antibiotic ointment or cream as directed by your doctor. Keep the infection covered until it heals completely.

• 3

  Drain the wound. With some infections, your doctor may advise that the best course of treatment includes draining. The infected area will be anesthetized prior to the procedure. An incision is then made to allow pus to drain from the wound.

• 4

  Take antibiotics as prescribed. Although MRSA is resistant to a number of medications, there are several antibiotics available that are still effective in its treatment. The most common antibiotic prescribed to treat MRSA is Vancomycin. Be sure to take it as directed until the prescription is completely finished. For more severe MRSA infections, hospitalization may be necessary for the administration of IV antibiotics. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and determine if this would be the best course of treatment.

• 5

  Prevent the recurrence of MRSA infection by avoiding skin-to-skin contact with any infected individuals. Keep any skin wounds clean and covered. Practice good personal hygiene, such as washing hands or using hand sanitizer when you do not have access to soap and water. Do not share personal items. MRSA spreads through contaminated personal objects such as razors, clothing, towels and sheets.