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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Biosensor for Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Staphylococcus Bacteria
Published on: May 8, 2013
[Cost/benefit calculations of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus screening methods and their practical
Márta Knausz1, Gabriella Kaproncai, Ferenc Rozgonyi
1Petz Aladár Megyei Oktatókórház Mikrobiológiai Laboratórium Gyor Zrínyi u. 13. 9024 Petz Aladár Megyei Oktatókórház Minoségbiztosítási és Higiénés Osztály Gyor. knauszm@petz.gyor.hu
Abstract:
Nosocomial infections are the main cause of extra charges in health care and they relate to patient safety, as well. About 30 percent of healthcare-associated infections can be prevented effectively with infection control and adequate screening methods. Currently, meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is the main nosocomial pathogen. Protective measures against this bacterium are well known, therefore it was selected for our present cost /benefit analysis. We have calculated the costs of the epidemic caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus at the Aladar Petz County Teaching Hospital, Gyor, in a two-year period, and also calculated the costs of the screening method. We compared our results with the published data. Screening methods are much less expensive than to cure the patient of a nosocomial infection. Thus, primary prevention has essential importance.
Insights
Preventing healthcare-associated infections, like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, through screening is more cost-effective than treating them. Early detection and control are crucial for patient safety and reducing healthcare expenses.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Healthcare Management
- Public Health
Context:
- Nosocomial infections represent a significant financial burden and patient safety concern in healthcare.
- Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a primary pathogen responsible for healthcare-associated infections.
- Effective infection control and screening methods can prevent approximately 30% of these infections.
Purpose:
- To conduct a cost-benefit analysis of screening for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in a hospital setting.
- To compare the costs associated with MRSA epidemics versus the costs of implementing screening protocols.
- To evaluate the economic impact of primary prevention strategies for nosocomial infections.
Summary:
- A two-year cost analysis of MRSA epidemics and screening methods was performed at Aladar Petz County Teaching Hospital, Gyor.
- The study calculated the financial impact of MRSA outbreaks and the expenses related to screening.
- Results were compared with existing published data on MRSA management and prevention.
Impact:
- Screening methods for MRSA are significantly less expensive than treating established nosocomial infections.
- Primary prevention through screening is essential for reducing healthcare costs and improving patient safety.
- The findings underscore the importance of investing in infection control and early detection strategies.
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