Nasal and Skin Swabs (MRSA Screening)

MRSA screening by nose and skin swabs, is a routine test performed on patients either before or on admission to hospital. MRSA (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus) is a bacteria which may be present on the skin and in the nostrils of healthy people, causing no signs, symptoms or infection. These people can be described as being colonised with MRSA. Undergoing procedures or surgery may give an opportunity for the bacteria on the skin to enter the body, and cause infections. MRSA infection may be difficult to treat, as the bacteria are resistant to many commonly used antibiotics. It is important to screen patients, so that if MRSA is present they can be decolonised to reduce the risk of themselves contracting an infection with MRSA, and to prevent the spread of the bacteria to other patients. /n /n Once you have watched this video, why not attempt the multiple choice quiz to test your knowledge?

Venepuncture

Venepuncture is the process of inserting a needle into a patient’s vein to take a sample of blood for testing. When taking blood samples, it is important to ensure that the correct sampling tubes are used, and that the samples are labelled and processed correctly. There are different methods for obtaining blood samples for testing; this film shows the use of an evacuated blood collection system.

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Administering Vaccinations

Vaccinations are given to provide immunity against certain infectious diseases. They produce their protective effect by inducing active immunity, providing immunological memory which enables the immune system to recognise and respond to any future exposure by a natural infection of the disease. Healthcare professionals administering immunisation vaccines must receive specific training in immunisation, and be trained in the recognition of adverse events and anaphylaxis.

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