CHW211-MRSA Prevention and Management Policy
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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
MRSA Prevention and Management Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish clear guidelines for the prevention, management, and control of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) within {{org_field_name}}. This policy aligns with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations and national infection prevention and control standards to protect residents, staff, and visitors from the risks associated with MRSA. It provides a structured approach to identifying, treating, and minimising the spread of MRSA within the care home environment.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all residents, staff, agency workers, contractors, and visitors within {{org_field_name}}. It covers screening, hygiene practices, isolation procedures, staff responsibilities, and treatment protocols for MRSA. It ensures a proactive approach to infection control to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and resident safety.
3. MRSA Prevention and Control Measures
3.1 Understanding MRSA and Transmission Risks
MRSA is a type of bacteria resistant to common antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat. It is primarily spread through direct contact with an infected person, contaminated surfaces, or via the hands of healthcare workers. The highest risk of transmission occurs in communal living environments, such as care homes, where residents may have open wounds, invasive devices, or weakened immune systems. Staff must be vigilant in recognising the risks and implementing strict hygiene controls to prevent outbreaks.
3.2 Screening and Identification of MRSA
New residents admitted to {{org_field_name}} will undergo a risk assessment to determine whether MRSA screening is necessary. Screening is recommended for residents who have been recently hospitalised, transferred from another care setting, or have a history of MRSA infection. Screening involves swabbing key areas such as the nose, throat, and any open wounds. If a resident is identified as MRSA-positive, an individualised care plan will be developed, and necessary precautions implemented to minimise transmission.
3.3 Infection Prevention and Control Measures
Strict infection control measures are essential to prevent the spread of MRSA. Staff must follow hand hygiene protocols by washing hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and using alcohol-based hand sanitisers before and after resident contact. All staff are required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and aprons, when providing direct care to an MRSA-positive resident. High-touch surfaces such as door handles, light switches, and medical equipment must be disinfected frequently using appropriate cleaning agents. Linen and clothing from affected residents must be laundered separately at high temperatures to eliminate bacteria.
3.4 Isolation and Cohorting of MRSA-Positive Residents
Residents diagnosed with MRSA will be managed on a case-by-case basis. If necessary, they may be placed in isolation within their own room to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Isolation precautions include using dedicated care equipment, minimising unnecessary movement within the care home, and ensuring staff attending to the resident follow stringent decontamination protocols. Cohorting of MRSA-positive residents may be considered if multiple cases arise, with dedicated staff assigned to their care.
3.5 Treatment and Medical Management
MRSA infections may require topical treatments, antibiotic therapy, or wound care, depending on the severity of the infection. Topical decolonisation treatments, such as antibacterial nasal ointments and antiseptic body washes, may be prescribed for colonised residents. Systemic antibiotic treatment will be determined by the resident’s GP or infectious disease specialist, and all medication must be administered according to the Medication Management and Administration Policy (CHW21). Staff must monitor residents for signs of infection, including fever, swelling, or worsening wounds, and report any concerns immediately.
3.6 Staff Training and Compliance
All staff must receive annual training on MRSA prevention, infection control, and safe handling of contaminated materials. Training will cover correct handwashing techniques, PPE usage, proper cleaning protocols, and emergency response measures for MRSA outbreaks. Compliance with infection control policies will be monitored through routine audits, spot checks, and staff performance evaluations. Any staff member failing to adhere to infection control procedures may be subject to disciplinary action under the Staff Conduct and Code of Ethics Policy (CHW28).
3.7 Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection
Routine and deep cleaning schedules will be strictly followed to maintain a hygienic environment. Approved disinfectants effective against MRSA will be used for daily cleaning of communal areas, resident rooms, and shared equipment. Housekeeping staff will receive specialised training in decontamination techniques to ensure compliance with infection control standards. Waste disposal, particularly of dressings and PPE, must follow Infection Prevention and Control Policy (CHW17) guidelines to prevent environmental contamination.
3.8 Managing MRSA in Staff and Visitors
Staff members diagnosed with MRSA must inform management immediately and may be required to undergo treatment or temporary exclusion from work, depending on their role and level of risk. Visitors with known MRSA infections should be advised on hygiene precautions and may be restricted from close contact with vulnerable residents. Hand hygiene stations and PPE will be made available at entry points to reduce external contamination risks.
3.9 Communication and Reporting Procedures
Effective communication with residents, families, and external healthcare providers is essential in managing MRSA cases. Families will be informed if their loved one is diagnosed with MRSA and will receive guidance on how to minimise risks during visits. Any MRSA outbreaks or significant cases must be reported to the Local Health Protection Team at {{org_field_outbreaks_support_local_health_protection_team_website}}, in line with regulatory requirements.
3.10 Emergency Response and Outbreak Management
In the event of multiple MRSA cases, an outbreak control team will be assembled to implement enhanced infection control measures. Immediate actions include isolating affected residents, increasing cleaning frequency, reinforcing staff training, and liaising with public health authorities. All outbreaks will be documented, and a review will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of control measures and identify areas for improvement.
4. Related Policies
This policy should be read in conjunction with the following:
- Infection Prevention and Control Policy (CHW17) for general hygiene and infection management.
- Safe Care and Treatment Policy (CHW11) ensuring the safe management of healthcare-associated infections.
- Risk Management and Assessment Policy (CHW18) for identifying and mitigating infection risks.
- Medication Management and Administration Policy (CHW21) for guidance on antibiotic treatments and decolonisation procedures.
- Health and Safety at Work Policy (CHW16) covering staff responsibilities in preventing infections.
5. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation, CIW guidelines, or operational requirements. Updates will be communicated to all staff, who will be required to acknowledge their understanding and compliance with the revised procedures.
Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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