Adventages and Pitfalls of PCR Testing for the Detection of MRSA in an Acute Care Hospital

Early detection of MRSA is a key step to limit its spread. Culture testing is the gold standard for identification but requires 2-3 days for completion allowing possible exposure of roommates and staff. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a rapid and sensitive method for the detection of MRSA. Result...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American journal of infection control 2014-06, Vol.42 (6), p.S29-S29
Main Authors: Pikula, Zoran, ICP, Tomassi, Jo-Anne, Ng, Wil, MHSc, Acomb, Moreen, RN, Alexander, Doreen, RN, White, Diane, RN, Masters in Education, Katz, Kevin, MD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Infection Control
Infectious Disease
Intensive care
Nosocomial infections
Polymerase chain reaction
Staphylococcus infections
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Summary:Early detection of MRSA is a key step to limit its spread. Culture testing is the gold standard for identification but requires 2-3 days for completion allowing possible exposure of roommates and staff. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a rapid and sensitive method for the detection of MRSA. Results are available within several hours. The sensitivity of both methods is increased by swabbing several body sites (nasal, rectal and open skin areas).
ISSN:0196-6553
1527-3296
DOI:10.1016/j.ajic.2014.03.084