Stop the Potential Killer: Prevention of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

The risk for hospital-acquired methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in the ICU is great considering the length of stay and the invasive procedures most patients go through. MRSA infections may lead to death and contribute greatly to the cost of care. The purpose of this study was to examine the evidence for the best possible means of preventing MRSA. The methodology was a review of the current research. Some of the measures that were found to be beneficial included daily bathing with chlorhexidine, environmental decon­tamination, MRSA screenings upon admission, isolation precautions for positive patients, eradication therapy, and strict hand hygiene. Conclusions indicate that hospital acquired MRSA infections can be decreased with strict adherence to the correct regimen and continuous, hospital-wide education and awareness