Staphylococcus aureus is commonly found in the nares and skin

Develops resistance to antibiotics when it has the modified binding protein gene

• This gene allows bacteria to continue growing in presence of antibiotics such as penicillins

Enters body through cuts and wounds, grows into more serious infections: osteomyelitis, meningitis, lung infections such as pneumonia and empyema

uncomplicated skin infections: folliculitis (inflammation of the follicles), furuncle, cellulitis (inflammation of dermis)

pneumonia

late stage- bloodstream infection, septic shock

most common infections are related to skin, subcutaneous tissue

leads to osteomyelitis- swelling and infection of bone

meningitis- infection/inflammation of fluid membranes surrounding brain and spinal cord

pneumonia- infection of the lungs

lung abscesses

empyema- pockets of pus on sides of body cavity

vitals

skin assessment/wound assessment- drainage, warmth, color, etc

check labs (CBC, culture, etc)

pain assessment

nutritional status/diet

broth based testing

agar based

cefoxitin disc diffusion

PCR

strict PPE use/contact precautions: gown and gloves

strict hand hygiene: gel in, gel out/soap and water

encourage healthy diet: high protein, vitamin E, high calorie

• protein promotes wound healing, vit E is an antioxidant- peanuts, spinach, carrots

proper wound care: maintain sterile technique

monitor signs of infection (fever, drainage, high HR, low BP

administer antibiotics

skin and soft tissue infections (boils, cellulitis, etc)

sepsis

death

pneumonia

UTI

explain how MRSA spreads: direct contact, sharing of personal items (razor, towels, etc)

explain that MRSA is resistant to certain antibiotics

wound care and proper dressing changes

importance of hygiene and hand hygiene

proper cleaning of home areas/surfaces

importance of being compliant with medications