Universal Precautions: How Effective are They Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus?

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Abstract
1. Because MRSA is commonly carried asymptomatically, colonized patients and caregivers are usually not recognized. During outbreaks, colonized and infected patients act as reservoirs and caregivers become transient carriers. 2. Because universal precautions and body substance isolation were originally developed in response to the AIDS epidemic to meet the safety needs of hospital caregivers, the use of universal precautions in extended care facilities should be further studied and refined. 3. In planning for effective training, enforcement, and compliance with universal precautions, it is essential that employees understand not only the importance of protecting themselves, but also the need to prevent cross-infection. 4. If a patient has an MRSA respiratory tract infection, the environment, including the air, may become heavily contaminated. Caregivers should wear masks to prevent nasal colonization.