Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Screening and Discontinuation of Precautions in Hospitals: Clinical Effectiveness and Guidelines

Question

1. What is the clinical effectiveness of screening for MRSA upon hospital admission?
2. What are the evidence-based guidelines regarding screening patients for MRSA upon hospital admission?
3. What are the evidence-based guidelines regarding the discontinuation of precautions for adult and elderly patients admitted to the hospital who have previously been diagnosed with MRSA?

Key Message

Evidence suggests that universal screening or screening of high risk patients is effective for the control of MRSA infection in hospitals, although the evidence is considered to be weak overall. Recommendations could not be made on the discontinuation of contact precautions.