Screening our patients for MRSA

MRSA – or meticillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus – is a common bacterial infection which around one in three people have on their skin. In most cases it is harmless and you won’t know you have it.

MRSA is a potential problem in hospitals because there is an increased risk that it will get into a wound or the blood, and this may cause an infection. Because it is resistant to many antibiotics, it is difficult to treat.

What's the standard?

We are expected to screen 95% of patients coming into hospital, whether their admission is planned or unexpected.

This is so we can offer treatment to patients with MRSA that will reduce the risk of infections.

How are we doing?

Our recent performance:

• March 2017 – 91.3% of patients screened for MRSA
• February – 90.9%
• January – 91.1%.

We are working hard to improve the number of patients screened for MRSA.

How you can help us

If you have previously been identified as having MRSA, or have been in close contact with some one who has, please tell our staff before you come into hospital or when you are admitted. This allows us to provide the best possible care for you.

Washing your hands can also reduce your risk of getting this infection. Please wash your hands after using the toilet and before eating or drinking, and encourage your visitors to do the same.

Find out more

For more information, see NHS Choices.

Got a question?

If you have a question about or comment on this information, please contact the communications team at communicationsteam@gstt.nhs.uk.