Universal rapid screening for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the intensive care units in a large community hospital.

Background: Health care-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (HA-MRSA) infections constitute a significant risk for hospitalized patients. This study evaluates the costs and effects of comprehensive and state-mandated MRSA screening for intensive care unit (ICU) patients and subsequent contact precautions on the rate of HA-MRSA.

Methods: A pre- and postimplementation study was conducted in a 24-bed medical intensive care unit (MICU) and a 15-bed surgical intensive care unit (SICU) at an acute care 536-bed community hospital.

Current practice in airway management: A descriptive evaluation.

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia, a common complication of mechanical ventilation, could be reduced if health care workers implemented evidence-based practices that decrease the risk for this complication.

Objectives: To determine current practice and differences in practices between registered nurses and respiratory therapists in managing patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

Methods: A descriptive comparative design was used.