Scenarios

Chapter 13: Protecting the health of the population

An elderly woman with dementia has been admitted following a suspected stroke. On routine swabbing on admission, she is found to be infected with meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Her relatives are surprised and concerned on visiting that she has been moved into a side room and they are told not to enter. You have been told to go to talk to them.

• 1. What will you say to the family?

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  Correct answer:
  Every effort must be made to protect the privacy of a patient with MRSA and her right to confidentiality. In this instance, however, the patient's MRSA status may need to be disclosed to the relatives.

• 2. How will you describe what will happen to the patient?

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  Correct answer:
  The patient's relatives need to know what is going to happen and why: Screening sites include nostrils, axilla and perineum. Their anxieties may be allayed by clear and prompt information. Treatment will include antibacterial wash or powder and cream for the nostrils for 5 days (there may be some local variations).