Intake Screening: MRSA Skin Examination

Overview

The appearance of MRSA skin infections is varied. Skin infections present as: 

• Superficial MRSA skin infections: These include pimples, boils, and impetigo.
• Impetigo is a superficial skin infection that often has a crusty and/or blistered appearance.
• If left untreated, superficial infections have potential to progress into serious/invasive infections.

• Deep MRSA skin infections: These include abscesses and cellulitis. Both of these present as painful, red, swollen areas of skin.

 

Early Detection – Limits the Spread of MRSA

A medical professional should evaluate all skin infections because:

• Early detection and treatment of MRSA skin infections limits the spread of MRSA throughout a facility. 
• Early detection and treatment of MRSA skin infections will minimize the need for more invasive treatment, i.e. surgery and/or hospitalization. 
  • Antibiotics are more effective at the onset of the infection, before the infection is allowed to progress. 
  • If treatment is delayed, infections can progress into serious or life-threatening infections. 

 

MRSA Skin Surveillance – Who Is At Risk?

Inmates and staff need to be educated on reporting all skin infections, and high-risk populations should be monitored closely.  High-risk populations include:

• Inmates recently discharged from the hospital.
• Patients with chronically open wounds.
• Patients with an indwelling catheter or other indwelling medical device.
• Patients with a depressed immune system, including:
  • Patients with certain types of cancer, or those receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  • Patients taking prednisone or other steroid therapy.
  • Patients with HIV or AIDS.
  • Diabetic patients.
• Inmates with itchy rashes. Scratching increases the risk for broken skin, thereby allowing entrance for MRSA bacteria.