How will a provider document a positive MRSA colonization test?

The documentation of a positive MRSA colonization test should accurately reflect the nature of the test performed. When a provider notes "MRSA screen positive," it clearly indicates that a screening test for MRSA was conducted and yielded a positive result. This phrasing communicates that the patient has tested positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a screening context, which is essential for understanding the clinical implications and management of the patient.

Using "MRSA positive" or "MRSA detected" could lead to ambiguity about whether this was a screening test or a diagnostic test related to an active infection. Similarly, "Positive MRSA result" lacks specificity regarding the context of a screening test. In clinical documentation, clarity is crucial to ensure appropriate follow-up and treatment decisions, making "MRSA screen positive" the most precise and informative choice for denoting the outcome of a colonization screening.