What it means
A strain of Staphylococcus aureus that does not respond to methicillin and related antibiotics such as penicillins and many cephalosporins. It causes skin infections, boils and wound infections, and can cause pneumonia and bloodstream infections. Many people carry it on the skin or in the nose without being sick.
For the nurse
Use contact precautions in a hospital: gown and gloves to enter the room and dedicated equipment. Hand hygiene before and after contact stops most spread. Teach clients to keep wounds covered and not share towels or razors.
In a chart
"Wound culture positive for MRSA; contact precautions initiated."
At a glance
| Also written | methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus |
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Related terms
bacterium
A tiny one-celled living thing, seen only under a microscope, of which some kinds cause disease; the plural is bacteria.
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.
precaution
A step taken ahead of time to prevent harm, such as the infection-control practices used with every client.
hand hygiene
Cleaning the hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.