Battling MRSA Infections in Older Adults- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are potentially life threatening and cause a variety of illnesses including skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI), bacteremia and endocarditis, pneumonia, bone and joint infections, and central nervous system (CNS) infections. An estimated 2.5 million people in the United States are carriers of MRSA, and a study at one hospital found 56% of postoperative infections were MRSA infections.MRSA is widespread in skilled nursing facilities as well, with as many as 25% of patients colonized upon arrival and an additional 10% who may acquire MRSA while in residence. In fact, the incidence and mortality associated with MRSA infection is highest among adults age 65 and over.
All the while, MRSA infection is also a significant and increasing problem in the community at large. But senior care pharmacists have the opportunity to reduce the burden of MRSA infection in older adults in both healthcare and community settings. The goal of this continuing medical education activity is to expand the ability of senior care pharmacists to practice optimal approaches for the identification and treatment of MRSA infection in older adults, ultimately reducing the burden of MRSA infection in older adults:
List 2 ways to improve existing infection control policies and procedures to prevent the spread of MRSA infections in the LTC setting.
Describe 2 ways to improve the identification of MRSA infection in the LTC setting.
Outline the application of the updated IDSA guidelines for the management of MRSA infections in older adults.
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of various antimicrobial agents for treatment of MRSA infection.
0.75 Free CEUs for Pharmacists
Expires 1/29/13