MRSA, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a highly infectious bacterium that does not respond to many ordinary antibiotics. As a result, it is particularly common in healthcare settings, including nursing homes. When acquired in those settings, it is called HA-MRSA (healthcare-associated MRSA). HA-MRSA usually occurs through direct contact with infected skin, or contact with contaminated hands, cloth, or tools such as catheters. However, MRSA infections also infect people out in the regular community, where it is called CA-MRSA (community-associated MRSA).
MRSA first appears on the skin as a red, painful bump, which may include pus, and may accompany a fever. Many people confuse it for a spider bite. HA-MRSA can cause further infection in the bloodstream, lungs, other soft tissue, and any surgical sites, as well as other problems. MRSA can be treated with some less common antibiotics, but the best way to fight the infection is through prevention.
HA-MRSA can be prevented fairly effectively if healthcare facilities have follow the CDC’s Standard Precautions. These Standard Precautions prevent transmission of a wide range of infections, and should be a regular part of any healthcare setting’s patient care. They include handwashing, gloves, careful laundry handling, facial and clothing protection, equipment and instrument sanitation, and cleaning protocols for areas that are frequently touched or near patients. Additionally, when a MRSA infection strikes a particular healthcare setting, the facility may need to take additional precautions around MRSA patients, such as placing them far from patients who are more vulnerable to infection.
A MRSA infection can lead to many serious medical issues, including: blood stream infections, sepsis, and even death.
If you or a loved one have acquired MRSA in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital, doctor’s office, nursing home, or dialysis center, contact an attorney. Bring your medical records and any documentation you have, as well as information about the healthcare setting in which you contracted MRSA. For a free case consultation, contact us at Kuhlman Law, LLC at (612) 444-3374.