MRE network

Abbreviations such as MRE (= multi-resistant pathogens) or MRSA do not mean much in themselves, even if they are translated. Today, unlike 60 years ago, many pathogens can be treated with antibiotics or other drugs, the first and best known of which is penicillin. Unfortunately, these pathogens have not disappeared because of this; many of them have adapted to the drugs so that they are no longer effective. The pathogens have become resistant. Using other medicines can provide short-term relief, but new resistances can develop. The more seriously ill a person is, the older or more dependent he or she becomes, the more difficult it becomes to treat such resistant pathogens, and the patient can even die from such an infection. It is therefore all the more important to prevent the spread of such pathogens and to delay the development of new resistances. The methods are less difficult than is generally assumed. However, as is so often the case, good information is particularly important.

The MRE - Network is to fulfil the task of slowing down the spread of multi-resistant pathogens and optimising the protection of individuals as well as the community against these pathogens. This is certainly best achieved through cooperation and an intensive exchange of information between all those involved. Thus, for the protection of their patients and staff, the providers of medical services such as clinics, rehabilitation facilities and doctors' practices are already obliged and committed to recognise multi-resistant pathogens and to initiate and monitor the necessary treatment measures. Inpatient and outpatient facilities that provide care in the broadest sense see an equally important task in the problem of dealing with people infected by multi-resistant germs. The patient transport services, which ensure the connection between the service providers, have a special responsibility with regard to the spread of multi-resistant pathogens, but also need special information and instructions for action in order to fulfil their tasks properly. The same applies to the medical professions as providers of therapeutic products. Pharmacies and health insurance companies have a special task in educating and supporting patients. Patient organisations and full-time and voluntary patient care workers can counteract the possible exclusion of patients with multi-resistant pathogens. All other interested parties who can and want to contribute to counteracting the spread of multi-resistant pathogens are very welcome.

All members first agree on the following three principles:

• 1. a uniform clarification of suspected cases:
  Agreement on definitions (according to the specifications of the KRINKO/ RKI):
  • MRSA
  • Settlement
  • Colonisation
  • Infection
    
    
• 2. open and honest communication about the problem:
  • Uniform recording of infections
  • Uniform documentation
  • Passing on the relevant data in the network
  • Uniform information in the case of transfers, change of care
    
    
• 3. a uniform remediation scheme for the patients/clients:
  • Observance of the KRINKO/RKI guidelines
  • Further training according to the latest scientific results
  • Exchange of experience from own results

No costs are incurred. Membership in the MRSA Network Waldeck-Frankenberg begins on the 1st of the month following the declaration of membership. It can be terminated by the network partners without giving reasons at the end of the current quarter.