Community Acquired MRSA: Evidence-Based Protocol for the Emergency Department

Abstract

(41st Biennial Convention) Educational meetings with nurse practitioner and physician assistant providers were conducted in a hospital emergency department (ED) to increase provider knowledge of the evidence-based (EB) treatment of community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs). An evidence-based protocol was implemented in the ED for the treatment of nonpregnant patients ages 21-49 years old with suspected CA-MRSA SSTIs to provide an effective, consistent treatment plan in order to decrease complications and prolonged pain. Increased provider knowledge culminates in better quality of care for patient presenting to the ED with CA-MRSA SSTIs. An evidence-based protocol guides providers in delivering consistent, effective care resulting in improved outcomes including decreased pain and suffering.� Project results showed 100% of providers increased their knowledge of the most effective treatment for CA-MRSA SSTIs. All providers indicated they would continue to utilize the information to for CA-MRSA SSTIs to the treatment plan outlined in the evidence-based protocol after the conclusion of the project.� The EB protocol was effective in decreasing the size of the infection and pain in all patients meeting the inclusion criteria for this project. Education of providers and implementation of the evidence-based protocol for the treatment of CA-MRSA SSTIs could have significant impact on local and regional healthcare.� Changing current practices to provide effective treatment on initial presentation decreases the risk of a worsening infection which requires hospitalization for IV antibiotics and surgical incision and drainage.