Researchers relied on a hybrid simulation model to estimate MRSA transmission between hospitals and long-term care facilities. The simulation model showed patient transfers from long-term care facilities to hospitals are negligible, unless patients are continuously admitted to the same unit. However, patient transfers from hospitals to long-term care facilities can yield increases in MRSA prevalence.
Researchers concluded transferring patients from larger facilities with higher patient turnover to smaller facilities with lower patient turnover could cause the increase in MRSA prevalence. They suggest decolonization as an effective means for reducing that risk.
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