Researchers evaluated the effect of a bundle of infection control measures on MRSA transmission rates at two similar Veterans Health Administration hospitals. The bundle included four components:
Sign up for our FREE E-Weekly for more coverage like this sent to your inbox!
• Institutional culture change
• Surveillance for MRSA infection and transmission
• Active screening for colonization
• Contact precautions for colonized patients
One hospital implemented Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-recommended contact precautions, which include wearing a cover gown. The other hospital modified the precautions to include only the use of gloves.
During the four-year study period, hospital A had 1.58 MRSA transmissions per 1,000 patient days and hospital B had 1.56. Both hospitals significantly reduced MRSA healthcare-associated infections, and there was no significant difference in the incidence of MRSA HAIs or MRSA surgical site infections between the hospitals. Annual acquisition costs for cover gowns were $183,609 at hospital A and $25,812 at hospital B.
More Articles on MRSA:
More Community-Associated MRSA in Smaller vs. Larger Hospitals
Study: Better Hand Hygiene Didn’t Alter C. diff, MRSA Rates
Are Contact Precautions Necessary to Decrease Risk of Infection?
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
