Changes in infection control practice to reduce MRSA infection.

An increase in the incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) led to a review of infection control practice within the cardiothoracic directorate in a South London teaching hospital. Several changes in aspects of care were implemented including educational initiative, extension of the admission screening policy, a specific isolation nursing team and the development of a care pathway. This led to a considerable reduction in cross-infection rates. It was recognized that high-quality, high nurse-to-patient ratio and education on fundamental aspects of barrier nursing were necessary to maintain the low infection rates.