Hospital fights infection problem

A Suffolk hospital that experienced 11 cases of MRSA and 72 of C difficile in the year up to April 2009 is spending £275,000 in a bid to cut infections.

West Suffolk Hospital has earmarked £250,000 for 24 extra cleaners.

A further £25,000 is being spent on equipment to monitor new patients suspected of carrying infection.

The new equipment, to be installed in several isolation rooms across the hospital, will check blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels.

Deep-cleaned rooms

These separate rooms, and innovations such disposable cuffs, were introduced last year, senior matron for surgery Tracey Oats said.

"They have proved a huge success, helping us to drive down infection rates across the trust still further.

"These extra measures allow us to monitor isolated patients using specially dedicated equipment, which significantly reduces the risk of the infection spreading to others.

"Once the patient using the machine has been discharged, the side room and equipment are deep cleaned ready for the next patient."

The hospital expects to take delivery of the equipment next week.