Some trusts say targets get in the way of keeping clean. The number of cases of the superbug MRSA is falling in England, but the potentially more dangerous Clostridium difficile is thriving, figures show.
A review by the Health Protection Agency showed hospital MRSA cases had fallen by 10% in the first three months of 2007 compared with a year ago.
But rates for C. difficile, which mainly strikes the elderly, rose by 2%.
Some NHS trusts complained that targets - both clinical and financial - were hindering the fight against infection.
I've got to admit that anti-MRSA measures are drummed into us 100% at our Hospital, and Nurses are even involved in auditting staff walking onto the ward. Problem areas not addressed, however, include the development of contact allergies to the stuff they want us to use for MRSA eradication. There are no suitable alternatives now as one major manufacturer decided to stop manufacturing the one product that could've been used (stupid!). With regards to C. Difficile, yes it is around and has been for as long as I can remember. I'm glad it's being highlighted now as it might kick-start medical staff into appropriate prescribing and regular reviews of antibiotics. I also feel that the use of probiotics such as acidophilus and the probiotics you get in live yoghurts, Actimel/ Yakult etc..also need to be seriously looked at, and provided by catering within Hospitals. If I had C. Diff, I'd definately be getting at least 2 or 3 of these thing down me a day, to keep my gut flora flourishing!!
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Great to see this Blog back up and running Bongo!
I put a link on 'Wiggers World' for you, and I'll spread the word.
I'm off now for a pint or two of yoghurt... well a small pot with some fresh cucumber and a cracker or two.
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