Question about Recurrent MRSA infections

Sour Lemon · Oct 14, 2018

Hello. I am an RN working in a PCU/ICU unit. I have been working there for about 4 years. 2 years ago I delevoped a small pimple sized spot on my right arm. I noticed it as I was handing off report to the next shift, didn't think much of it. I came back to work the following night and the spot and grown tremendously. It was concerning. Then it kept growing larger and larger and turned into massive cellulitis all the way up my arm. I had it lanced and cultured and it was positive for MRSA. I was then admitted for IV antibiotics.
Ever since this instance 2 years ago I keep getting spots on my skin that grow into massive infections. I've had one on my leg and I just had a massive abscess surgically I/D under my left armpit. Now my arm has a large open wound that is packed. I have no idea why I have suddenly developed active MRSA and why these infections keep recurring. I know as nurses we likely all have MRSA colonized in our body. I just have no idea why I am reacting this way suddenly. I take isolation precautions just as every other nurse does. Has anyone ever dealt with this or know someone who has? Any idea of what might be causing this? Any tips ? I just don't understand and would appreciate any thoughts or advice.

I think it's a myth that we're all colonized with MRSA. I'd worked with a massive number of MRSA patients over eight years, was tested when I had a c-section, and came up negative. I thought I'd be positive for sure because of the "we're all colonized" belief so many people seem to have.

As for why this might be happening to you, your health care provider would probably be the best source of information.

psu_213, BSN, RN · Oct 14, 2018

You absolutely need to take this to your PCP, and thy could recommend a possible visit to ID or derm. There are many possibilities here, and you need input from physicians.

Otherwise be diligent with your hand washing in and out work.

MunoRN, RN · Oct 14, 2018

The reason for your recurrent infections is something to determine with your MD, but generally MRSA are not more likely to cause an infection than MSSA, the bacteria are basically the same just resistant to certain antibiotics

Editorial Team / Admin · Oct 14, 2018

Good you are keeping in close contact with your MD, and are getting appropriate treatment.

As for the whys and wherefores, these would have to be explored with your PMD or dermatologist, or ID specialist.

No one here, per the Terms of Service, can offer any medical advice -- nor would you want to accept advice from strangers over the internet, who additionally have no access to physical exam or medical records.

Wishing you healing.

Closing this now.