Dedicate the use of non-critical patient care equipment to a single patient (or cohort of patients infected or colonized with the same pathogen requiring precautions) to avoid patient-to-patient transmission.

Electronic thermometers used with the patient on Contact Precautions should not be shared with other patients. Dedicate a thermometer for single patient use and disinfect it appropriately when the patient is removed from Contact Precautions, or do not use an electronic thermometer for the patient.

If use of common equipment or items is unavoidable, then the equipment must be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly before use on another patient.

Linen and Laundry - handle transport and process soiled linen in a manner that prevents exposure and contamination of clothing and avoids transfer of microorganisms to other patients and environments

Dishes, Glasses, Cups, and Eating Utensils - no special precautions needed. The combination of hot water and detergents used in institutional dishwashers is sufficient to decontaminate these items.

Housekeeping - Environmental surfaces should be routinely cleaned with an effective EPA-approved disinfectant detergent, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. On a daily basis, disinfect bedside equipment such as tables, bed rails, bedside commodes, wheelchairs and other assistive devices. When patient is discharged from room or no longer has MRSA, terminal cleaning should include changing the bedside curtains.