Nasal decolonization is frequently recommended as a strategy for the prevention of surgical site infections (SSIs) and other healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), particularly in perioperative and intensive care settings. The objective is to decrease the bacterial load, particularly colonization with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in the nose, which functions as a transition area between the skin and the airways. This learning activity summarizes guidelines and recommendations from a number of professional organizations and government agencies that support the use of nasal decolonization. Methods of universal and targeted decolonization are described, and advantages and disadvantages of the active ingredients in various antibiotic and antiseptic agents used for nasal decolonization are outlined. The important role played by nurses in the implementation of infection-prevention bundles, decolonization protocols, and patient education around nasal decolonization also is examined.
Learning Objectives:
Describe the evidence-based guidelines that support nasal decolonization as a core component of preventing SSI and HAI
Differentiate between antibiotic and antiseptic nasal decolonization methods and explain their appropriate clinical use
Demonstrate nursing best practices to ensure effective application, patient compliance, and safety across perioperative and intensive care settings
