Section: Nasal Decolonization
Nasal Decolonization is a proven strategy for reducing MRSA burden in the nose, which serves as a reservoir for Staphylococcus aureus. This technique protects patients when they are at high risk for infection, such as during surgery. Nasal decolonization requires consistent, dedicated effort from staff, but the potential benefit is very impactful.
At the top of this page is the educational content, including presentations and accompanying one-pagers. This page also provides an assemblage of resources and materials to assist in the planning and implementation of a decolonization program, including guidelines, tools, training resources, and patient education documents, organized by type of decolonization agent and specific need.
Presentations
Presentation: The Evidence for MRSA Decolonization
After reviewing the content of this presentation, viewers will be able to—
- Discuss the evidence for MRSA decolonization as it applies to MRSA and SSI prevention for surgeries for which MRSA infection is especially harmful (cardiac, hip and knee joint replacement, and spinal fusion)
Documents:
Presentation: Decolonization Strategies
After reviewing the content of this presentation, viewers will be able to—
- Discuss the evidence for MRSA decolonization as it applies to different nasal decolonization agents​
- Discuss the approaches of universal and targeted MRSA decolonization
Documents:
- Decolonization Strategies – Slides (PPTX, 4 MB)
- Decolonization Strategies – Facilitator Guide (DOCX, 3 MB)
Presentation: Decolonization Implementation
After reviewing the content of this presentation, viewers will be able to—
- Review the evidence for MRSA decolonization as it applies to MRSA and SSIs for cardiac, hip and knee joint replacement, and spinal fusion surgeries
- Identify key strategies for MRSA decolonization ​
- Identify challenges and operational issues in the implementation of decolonization
- Explore effective strategies for implementing decolonization strategies
Documents:
- Decolonization Implementation – Slides (PPTX, 4 MB)
- Decolonization Implementation – Facilitator Guide (DOCX, 3 MB)
One-Pagers
One-Pager: The Evidence for MRSA Decolonization One-Pager (DOCX, 346 KB)
This one-page document provides a concise summary of the studies and evidence discussed in the presentation that support nasal decolonization and preoperative skin antisepsis to prevent MRSA and SSI.
One-Pager: Universal and Targeted Decolonization Strategies One-Pager (DOCX, 285 KB)
This document defines the different types of decolonization strategies and explains what is needed to implement either approach. Mid- to high-level administrative management and leadership who are interested in implementing decolonization programs at their site may use this document to compare the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
One-Pager: Products Used for S. aureus Nasal Decolonization One-Pager (DOCX, 361 KB)
This one-page document provides a concise summary of available nasal decolonization products to assist staff in selection of agent for preoperative decolonization.
Tools and Resources
Tools and Resources for Decolonization (Main)
Visit the Tools & Resources for Decolonization page to explore guides, protocols, staff training materials and patient educational resources. Links to individual sections are linked below.
- Decolonization First Steps, Readiness, and Prelaunch
This section covers Readiness and Prelaunch. It is recommended to start here. The guides provided in this section walk you through key early decisions and the preparatory steps for the launch of your decolonization program. - Decolonization Protocols
Access sample service and nursing protocols for teaching patients how to bathe with chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) and to perform nasal decolonization. - Decolonization Staff Training Materials
Access training materials designed to help staff with implementation, including frequently asked questions so your staff can better help their patients do it themselves at home. - Decolonization Patient Educational Resources
Find resources designed to educate patients about decolonization.
