MRSA Transmission in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization is a growing concern among Neonatal Intensive Care Units as it is a known risk factor for developing MRSA infection (Geva et al., 2011). Because of this risk, interventions are needed to prevent transmission to non-infected patients. This paper examines and discusses the best evidence of clinical practice to prevent the spread of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the risks associated with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection. Additionally, this paper identifies inconsistencies and barriers with policies developed used to reduce Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus transmission in different Neonatal Intensive Care Units, while identifying the evidence for best practice without causing neonatal harm.