Antimicrobial stewardship is as important in nursing homes or any residential aged care facility as a hospital.  A recent study of MRSA epidemiology in the Hunter New England region indicates a significant association between residential aged care residence and first detection of MRSA in the community associated group  with no contact with healthcare over previous 12 months.

The CDC has produced some useful resources, keeping in mind that the acuity of American nursing home patients is different to Australia.

We have previously discussed issues relevant to nursing home AMS including UTI and cellulitis management. There was also a recent MJA article describing novel ways of treating nursing home acquired pneumonia using a Hospital in the Home model and avoiding hospital admissions.