Heterogeneity in preoperative Staphylococcus aureus screening and decolonization strategies among healthcare institutions

In 2024, universal S. aureus decolonization is used as a common strategy for SSI prevention. The researchers note that this is in contrast to a study they did in 2012, where universal decolonization was not present. The researchers describe the use of universal versus targeted decolonization and discuss factors that may have contributed to the emergence of universal decolonization. Facilities reported using nasal mupirocin, chlorhexidine gluconate bathing, and nasal povidone-iodine for decolonization.

Bennis SL, Kulasingam S, Ferrieri P, Kline SE. Heterogeneity in preoperative Staphylococcus aureus screening and decolonization strategies among healthcare institutions. Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology. Published online 2025:1-4. doi:10.1017/ice.2024.231