Hot Topics in Athletic Training - MRSA
MRSA
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to some specific antibiotics. Sports provide a unique opportunity for disease to spread because of the physical contact and sharing of equipment and facilities. Staph occasionally invades the skin's surface and cause infection in the form of a boil, impetigo, folliculitis, abscess and cellulitis. The majority of community-associated MRSA cases are treated with antibiotics with little disruption in daily activities. Careful and diligent monitoring of all skin lesions and wounds is important because it is possible (although very rare) that MRSA can become an invasive infection leading to blood disorders and compromising vital organs.
Transmission of disease and skin infection can be minimized when athletes take part in diligent and proper hygiene practices such as showering immediately after practice and competition, don't share any personal equipment, towels, bar soap, razors, etc. All skin abrasions and wounds need to be cared for and covered appropriately by the certified athletic trainer.
How can MRSA be prevented?
- Follow good hygiene practices, including frequent hand washing, showering immediately following each practice or competition and cleaning all practice clothes daily.
- Don't touch other peoples' skin infections.
- Don't share personal items such as practice clothes, towels, razors, deodorants, nail clippers, etc.
- Have all wounds, abrasions, skin lesions cared for by certified athletic trainers immediately.
- Check for skin infections on self and opponents, report immediately any questions.
- Clean and disinfect equipment regularly using a mild bleach solution or commercial product.
What to do if an infection is suspected?
- Report to the school's certified athletic trainer immediately.
- If awareness of the skin lesion appears over a weekend, consult with your family physician.
- Keep any wounds covered.
- Wash hands and surfaces that have come in contact with any exudate from wounds.
What will happen if an athlete has a staph infection?
- The wound or lesion will be evaluated and cared for by the certified athletic trainer.
- The parents of the athlete will be notified and recommended they consult a physician.
- Information about staph and MRSA will be provided to the parents.
- A contact history inventory will be conducted with the athlete to determine who and what they may have come in contact with over the past few days. Based on the information gathered, additional disinfecting or investigation will be implemented.
- The athlete should follow the direction of their treating physician and provide physician's recommendations to the certified athletic trainer.
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