Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureas: An Interventional Study Among Health Care Workers of Surgical Icu at Zagazig University Hospital, Egypt

Abstract

Introduction: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureas (MRSA) is largely a hospital-acquired infection that is capable of causing severe infections. Comprehensive MRSA control programs, have reported success in controlling transmission and reduced acquisition of MRSA in high-risk units in hospitals. Aim of work: To measure the current prevalence of MRSA colonization and measure the effect of health education program on knowledge and attitude about MRSA infection and control among health care workers. Materials and methods: An intervention study was conducted over 8 months upon 54 working staff in the Surgical ICU at Zagazig university hospital and 144 isolates were taken from the health care workers, patients and the environment. Results: Out of 144 isolates, 36 were positive for MRSA with a rate of 61% was on the side of the health care workers. Our findings revealed significant improvement in the knowledge and attitude after application of the educational program in health care workers. Conclusion: Further targeted health education programs for health care workers are needed to increase their awareness and understanding of the microorganism and the importance of the adherence to the infection control guidelines to break the chain of transmission in the health care setting.