June 3, 2007 - Whether you’re a healthcare professional, patient, resident, family member or simply an active member of the community at large, you have probably heard the rising concerns over methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections (MRSA). In the simplest of terms, MRSA is a type of Staph infection that has formed a resistance to traditional antibiotics such as cephalexin and amoxicillin.
MRSA infections are becoming increasing more common not only in healthcare settings, but within our communities as well. A recent study conducted at UCLA and published in the August 17th, 2006 New England Journal of Medicine found MRSA to be the most common form of soft tissue and skin infections of patients arriving in the emergency rooms in 11 U.S. cities . Often misdiagnosed, MRSA is spread to caregivers and other patients through contact with human hands, environmental surfaces or devices contaminated with body fluids containing MRSA .
One of the most common surfaces to come in contact with bodily fluids within a hospital or long term care setting is the mattress. Although many mattresses are treated with antimicrobial agents, as with common antibiotics, these antimicrobials are not effective against MRSA. Further research is also needed as it relates to the effectiveness of popular cleaning agents at killing all bacteria including MRSA.
Enter a new era in patient and caregiver protection with the introduction of the Gaymar Isoflex mattress with the Silver3 antimicrobial cover. Long a trusted name in antimicrobial protection, including MRSA, Silver is proven to kill MRSA on contact. What makes Silver so effective is that it attacks the bacteria’s cell structure in many different ways, rather than through a single approach as with many common antibiotics. This multi faceted attack provides for more effective termination of the bacteria and aids in preventing resistance to the antimicrobial. Although deadly to MRSA, Silver is safe and effective for human contact.
This unique cover is treated with a Silver additive that can withstand years of cleaning and wear while maintaining its antimicrobial properties. Available in a 4-way stretch fabric, this cover adds to the already impressive performance of the Isoflex mattress. Gaymar continues to build upon the state-of-the-art Isoflex Gelastic technology with the addition of the Silver3 top cover. Isoflex has revolutionalized the market with its non-powered design, effective in redistributing pressure and managing shear, as well as treating patients with all stages of wounds.
For more information visit: www.cdc.gov