The risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization is predictable with four factors, according to research in the American Journal of Infection Control.
Researchers examined nine variables as potential MRSA colonization predictors.
Nursing home residence, diabetes, hospitalization in the past year and chronic skin infection or condition had significant associations with MRSA colonization. Nursing home residence was the best predictor of colonization.
The study concluded results support the screening of nursing home patients for MRSA upon hospital admission.