Implementing and improving the efficiency of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus active surveillance program using information technology

BackgroundThis study investigated implementation of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) active surveillance program, evaluated its efficacy in reducing the transmission of this pathogen in a community hospital, and assessed the role of information technology (decision support rules and an electronic health record) in improving the program's efficiency.MethodsA descriptive review of this interventional quality improvement initiative was conducted. Outcomes evaluated include MRSA acquisition rates, time savings, and staff satisfaction.ResultsOverall MRSA acquisition rates declined in 3 medical units (57 total beds) following the application of information technology to a MRSA surveillance program (χ2 = 15.6, df = 1; P < .001.) An estimated time savings of 37.75 hours from nursing and support staff and an additional 45 indirect care hours per month was achieved. Of the staff responding to a postimplementation survey, 100% reported overall program satisfaction (88% fully satisfied and 12% satisfied).ConclusionsAn active surveillance program can reduce the transmission of MRSA to noninfected, noncolonized patients in a community hospital. The application of information technology, specifically using decision support rules within electronic health records that automatically task clinicians to obtain cultures, can improve the efficiency and outcomes of an active surveillance program.