A study of senior staff nurses' perceptions about MRSA
Lines, L.
Nursing Times 102(15): 32-35
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0954-7762 PMID: 16640211 Document Number: 598704
To examine the extent to which staff nurses feel that MRSA is out of control and that any attempts by them to control it are unnecessary. A qualitative research paradigm with semi-structured interviews to examine the perceptions, attitudes and beliefs of 10 senior staff nurses. In the study, 60% of participants believe that MRSA is out of control and state 'why should they bother worrying about it'. Furthermore, 80% of participants commented that prescribed courses of nasal mupirocin were frequently missed. The perception is that IV treatments were more important and effective than topical agents. The study has established that a small section of experienced staff nurses perceive MRSA to be out of control and they are not overly concerned about its management.