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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Summary
Positive deviance identifies effective individuals within groups to share successful strategies. A six-hospital study successfully reduced methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection rates by 70 percent using this approach.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare quality improvement
- Infectious disease control
- Organizational behavior
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant healthcare challenge.
- Varying infection rates exist across healthcare facilities despite similar resources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply the positive deviance theory to reduce MRSA infection rates in hospitals.
- To identify and share unique practices of high-performing individuals or teams.
Main Methods:
- A collaborative study involving six hospitals was conducted.
- The positive deviance approach was implemented to identify and disseminate successful infection control strategies.
Main Results:
- A 70 percent reduction in MRSA infection rates was achieved across the participating hospitals.
- The study identified specific, replicable practices contributing to reduced infections.
Conclusions:
- The positive deviance theory is an effective strategy for reducing healthcare-associated infections like MRSA.
- Sharing successful, non-traditional practices can significantly improve patient safety outcomes.
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