Screening swabs surpass traditional risk factors as predictors of MRSA bacteremia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Consideration to add empiric MRSA therapy with vancomycin is a common clinical dilemma. However, vancomycin overuse has important adverse events. MRSA colonization screening is commonly performed for infection control. We hypothesized that in cases of S. aureus bacteremia, a score based on patient level factors and MRSA colonization could predict the risk of MRSA infection and inform the need for empiric coverage.

Methods

Using modern machine learning statistical methods (LASSO regression and random forests), we designed a predictive score for MRSA infection based on patient level characteristics, and MRSA colonization as measured by screening done 30 days before infection (30-Day criteria), or at any time before infection (Ever-Positive criteria). Patient factors

SUBMITTER: Butler-Laporte G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5996459 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature