Management of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus mediated ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Prevention strategies and clinical management of methicillin- resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in ventilated patients who develop ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) are important. Since MRSA are the most frequently isolated bacteria in patients with VAP, and a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in intubated patients, rapid diagnosis and early treatment could reduce mortality. This review will examine preventive steps (i.e. screening ventilated patients for MRSA, decolonization, and hand washing), assessing clinical presentations before the results of culture are obtained to direct empiric treatment, and the appropriate antibiotic therapy upon culture confirmation of MRSA that could help in the management of VAP.