Management of an MRSA colonized wound using Leptospermum honey impregnated calcium alginate dressings

Background: 

A 48 y/o patient with an extended length of stay for a non-healing, MRSA colonized dehisced surgical wound was able to be safely discharged from the long term care environment.  In San Mateo Medical Center, a county system of healthcare, cost for health care and wound care is either provided by Medi-Cal or not reimbursed.  Caregivers are compelled to provide cost effective infection control and wound care management for all hospitalized patients and long term care residents.

Objective:

To investigate Leptospermum honey impregnated calcium alginate dressings as a cost effective infection control, and wound management option for a mentally compromised patient with MRSA colonization of a dehisced abdominal wound. 

Method: 

Preparation for discharging a patient with chronic schizophrenia to the mental health system included patient education about local wound care using Leptospermum honey impregnated calcium alginate dressings.  The patient received instruction regarding daily wound cleansing, application of a Leptospermum honey calcium alginate dressing and a cover dressing.  The patient’s wound was evaluated bi-weekly.   

Outcome:

Leptospermum honey dressing provided an easy dressing change for this psychiatric patient over dehisced abdominal site.  The protocol was easy for the patient to follow, the wound remained infection free, and healing was promoted in this previously non-healing wound. 

Conclusion:Leptospermum honey impregnated calcium alginate dressings provide an easy to use, cost effective infection control and wound management option.