Researchers performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. They searched PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects and Embase and identified studies evaluating discontinuation of contact precautions for multidrug-resistant organisms. They found 14 studies that met inclusion criteria.
Of the 14, six studies discontinued contact precautions for both MRSA and VRE; three for MRSA only; two for VRE only; and two for extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Escherichia coli; and one for Clostridium difficile infection.
The researchers found a trend toward reduction of MRSA infection after contact precautions were discontinued. Additionally, they found a statistically significant reduction in VRE infection.
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