Reducing MRSA Cardiothoracic Surgical Site Infections

A comprehensive intervention program led to a 93% reduction in cardiothoracic surgical site infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

In recent years, surgical site infections (SSIs) caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have become increasingly common. Although the goal of preventing such infections is clear, the best means of doing so remains elusive.

In a recent study conducted at a Rochester, New York, hospital where MRSA was accounting for >50% of SSIs, researchers focused on an intervention strategy in cardiothoracic surgery. This strategy involved five measures:

Nasal screening for MRSA carriage in all staff at program outset, with decolonization of carriers
Preoperative nasal screening for patients, with vancomycin prophylaxis for carriers
Preoperative use of intranasal mupirocin ointment in all patients
Rescreening of all patients on hospital di…

Reviewing Author

Larry M. Baddour, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate, Inc. (Authorship duties)

Larry M. Baddour, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate, Inc. (Authorship duties)