Introduction of rapid methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus polymerase chain reaction testing and antibiotic selection among hospitalized patients with purulent skin infections

Clin Infect Dis. 2014 Apr;58(8):e129-32. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciu039. Epub 2014 Jan 22.

Abstract

Introduction of a rapid methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) polymerase chain reaction assay, with physician education and pharmacist guidance, did not significantly reduce excessive empiric prescription of MRSA-active antibiotics despite the test's accuracy and potential to substantially reduce inappropriate antibiotic use.

Keywords: MRSA; antimicrobial stewardship; molecular diagnostics; skin and soft tissue infection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects*
  • Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus / isolation & purification*
  • Middle Aged
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Staphylococcal Skin Infections / drug therapy*
  • Staphylococcal Skin Infections / microbiology*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents