Which of the following statements about MRSA precautions in the NICU is most accurate?

• A. The primary goal is to prevent transmission to staff and other patients
• B. Precautions are identical to standard precautions only
• C. No isolation is necessary if the infant is asymptomatic
• D. Droplet precautions are preferred over contact precautions

Answer: (A)

MRSA precautions in the NICU are designed to stop transmission from an infected or colonized infant to healthcare staff and other babies. MRSA spreads mainly by direct contact and through contaminated surfaces or equipment, so precautions go beyond standard hygiene. Use gloves and gowns for all care, wash hands thoroughly before and after any contact, and clean or dedicate equipment for each patient when possible. Isolating the infant in a single room or cohorting with other MRSA-positive infants helps limit spread. Even if the baby is asymptomatic, colonization can still spread, so precautions may still be necessary. Droplet precautions aren’t the main strategy for MRSA because it spreads primarily by contact, not respiratory droplets. The main aim is to prevent transmission to staff and other patients.