Prospective Study of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in an Internal Medicine Ward: Population, Risk Factors and Implications

Abstract

Introduction: The infection by Staphylococcus aureus methicillin-resistant (MRSA) is one of the most important healthcare-
associated infections. In 2014 there was a rule from the National Directorate of Health addressed to this problem.
This study aims to quantify the patients with indication to search for MRSA colonization, examine the criteria, implications
and possible strategies.
Materials and Methods: Prospective data about patients admitted to an Internal Medicine Department in five non-consecutive
weeks.
Results: The sample includes 224 patients, mostly female, with a mean age of 76 years old. The majority (60.3%) presented indication for screening, which was conducted in 39.3% of the patients; 28.3% were positive. The most common criteria presented were prior antibiotic therapy (37.1%), recent hospitalization (32.1%) and transfer from a hospital
institution (16.1%).
Discussion: The age factor seems to influence the probability of indication for screening. Most patients showed indication to search for MRSA colonization (60.3%), which means a huge need for practices change. The high level of antibiotic therapy assumes great relevance in this sample (37.1%). In most of the patients, the screening was not done and it is necessary to sensitize the medical and nursing team.
Conclusion: It is important to require good practices from health professionals for the implementation of new rules and ensure operating conditions in the services in order they can be applied. It is crucial that the strategies are not implemented
alone. The patient must fulfill his part by not taking unjustified antibiotics.