Adherence to infection control guidelines in surgery on MRSA positive patients : A cost analysis

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Economics
• Infectious Disease Control
• Surgical Operations Management

Background:

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant threat in healthcare settings, necessitating strict infection control measures.
• Surgical units require specific protocols to prevent the transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms like MRSA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the additional costs associated with implementing MRSA infection control guidelines in an operating room setting.
• To evaluate the financial impact of adherence to these guidelines on surgical procedures.

Main Methods:

• The study involved direct observation of surgeries performed on patients positive for MRSA.
• Cost analysis was conducted using local unit costs for materials and working hours.
• Sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the robustness of the cost calculations.

Main Results:

• The average additional cost per surgical procedure for MRSA guideline compliance was €340.46, with a range of €207.76 to €473.15.
• A sensitivity analysis using a standardized operating room hourly rate estimated the extra cost at €366.22 per procedure.
• These findings indicate substantial financial implications for adhering to MRSA infection control protocols.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to MRSA infection control guidelines in surgical units results in considerable extra costs.
• Optimizing logistical planning, including the potential use of dedicated operating rooms, may offer a strategy for cost reduction.
• Further research into cost-effective infection control strategies is warranted.