AN important scheme which aims to slash the number of superbug infections has been introduced at the QE2 Hospital. Patients admitted to the WGC hospital for planned medical and surgical treatments will now be screened for MRSA on their skin and nostrils.
AN important scheme which aims to slash the number of superbug infections has been introduced at the QE2 Hospital.
Patients admitted to the WGC hospital for planned medical and surgical treatments will now be screened for MRSA on their skin and nostrils.
If the bacterium is found, the person can then be treated, thus putting them and other patients at reduced risk of infection.
The initiative follows the publication of figures which show the East and North Herts NHS Trust - which runs the QE2 - has recorded its lowest levels of MRSA blood infections to date.
Chief executive Nick Carver said: "By screening patients, we are able to treat those found to be carrying the bacteria before their admission.
"This reduces the risk of infection to our patients and transference of the bacteria to others."
He added: "Of course screening, while a very important step, is not the whole answer.
"We have a wide range of initiatives in place already that have played a large role in helping us to drive down infection rates, which are now at their lowest ever.
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