PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to identify the present situation of hospital infection and route of infection by clarifying the transmission aspect of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) in a Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit by analysing genotype. METHODS: MRSA was cultured from twenty five patients with a tracheostomy, twenty five health care workers, and environments in the Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit of one hospital in D city. Data was collected from December 21, 2004 to November 5, 2005. MRSA isolates representing each genotype were analyzed by spaA typing and a multiplex PCR method capable of identifying the structural type of the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec(SCCmec) carried by the bacteria. RESULTS: As the same genotype and gene sequence were found among health care workers, patients, and environments, it was assumed that there was cross transmission among them. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that first, as the hospital infection by MRSA between health care workers and patients in the Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit was due to result of cross transmission and the relevance of transmission between them was verified, it is necessary to take preventive measures and conduct education. Secondly, development of nursing interventions and study of infection are needed. Thirdly, consistent investment in prevention against hospital infections and environmental renovation is needed.
To assess the effect of handwashing improving program and MRSA carrier detection program on MRSA(methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infection rate in a intensive care unit.
The intervention was Nosocomial Infection(NI) control program consisted of hand washing improving program and identification and treatment of MRSA carrier. Data on the NI and MRSA infections were collected by an infection control nurse based on the definition of CDC. MRSA infection rates were calculated by the number of MRSA infection per 100 admissions or 1,000 patients-days. The difference of MRSA infection rates between pre and post intervention was tested by Chi-square at =.05.
MRSA infection rates 3.0% or 3.2 per 1,000 patient-days at the pre, 4.6% or 3.7 per 1,000 patient-days at the post, and the differences were not statistically significant (p=.411, p=.769 respectively).
The handwashing improving program and MRSA carrier detection program was not effective in reducing the Nosocomial Infection(NI) or MRSA infection rates. It is recommended further studies with a longer intervention and follow-up period.