What is the principal mode of transmission of an antibiotic-resistant organism such as MRSA in a hospital setting?

What is the principal mode of transmission of an antibiotic-resistant organism such as MRSA in a hospital setting?

• A. A colonized or infected healthcare worker
• B. Transfer from client to client on the hands of hospital personnel
• C. Environmental contamination
• D. Droplet transmission

Answer: (B)

MRSA is spread mainly by contact transmission in hospital settings, with the hands of healthcare personnel serving as the key vehicle. When staff touch an infected or colonized patient, then touch another patient or a shared surface without proper hand hygiene, MRSA is transferred. A colonized or infected healthcare worker can be a reservoir, but the primary mechanism is the transfer via hands or through contaminated items. Environmental contamination and indirect contact with surfaces contribute, but they are not the principal route, and droplet transmission is not the main mode for MRSA. This is why rigorous hand hygiene and proper use of gloves and equipment cleaning are central to preventing spread.

MRSA is spread mainly by contact transmission in hospital settings, with the hands of healthcare personnel serving as the key vehicle. When staff touch an infected or colonized patient, then touch another patient or a shared surface without proper hand hygiene, MRSA is transferred. A colonized or infected healthcare worker can be a reservoir, but the primary mechanism is the transfer via hands or through contaminated items. Environmental contamination and indirect contact with surfaces contribute, but they are not the principal route, and droplet transmission is not the main mode for MRSA. This is why rigorous hand hygiene and proper use of gloves and equipment cleaning are central to preventing spread.