Mluti-faceted interventions to prevent bloodstream MRSA infections

Methods The introduction of a sequence of interventions targeted at reducing MRSA bacteraemias by a newly expended infection control team, after analysis of existing polices and procedures. The use of MRSA antimicrobials in the Trust’s formulary was optimised. Teicoplanin was substituted with daptomycin in medical and surgical wards. In Intensive Care vancomycin by continuous infusion was introduced. Introduction of MRSA screening of all adult emergency admissions and subsequent decolonisation of patients of patients found to be positive. A new PIVD policy, insertion record and on-going care tool was launched. Skin preparation was changed from a non-sterile 70% alcohol and 0.5% chlorhexidine swab, to a sterile pre packaged application device containing 70% alcohol and 2% chlorhexidine. Mechanical Needle-free connectors were replaced with split septum connectors.