MRSA Infection and Contact Precautions

A patient may carry methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the nares or on the skin without being ill, yet the same organism can invade a wound, bloodstream, lung, or indwelling-device site. The first clinical distinction is therefore colonization versus infection: a positive screening result shows that MRSA is present, while purulence, tissue inflammation, systemic findings, or a positive culture from a suspected infected site support disease. MRSA also changes how care begins. Its resistance limits the usefulness of beta-lactam antibiotics, and transmission commonly occurs through hands, equipment, and contaminated surfaces. Apply contact precautions for suspected as well as confirmed MRSA while diagnostic specimens and susceptibility results are being obtained. If the infection is severe, vancomycin may be required; safe administration depends on the patient’s actual body weight, renal function, serum level plan, and response to the infusion.