SSTIs Flashcards
Define SSTI
Skin and soft tissue infection
SSTIs are commonly associated with which comorbidities?
Obesity, vascular disease, T2DM
When are antibiotics used for boils?
Only if there is cellulitis and redness around the boil. If not, can just drain it
Main antibiotic that can be used for MRSA?
Vancomycin
Why should you ask patients about their exposure when presenting with an SSTI?
Depending on where they have been, they may be at risk for particular pathogens.
E.g. fresh water (the floods), salt water, animal bites, all have their own pathogens associated
Treatment for rapidly progressing SSTIs?
Need to ensure you use a broad spectrum AB that will cover the most damaging pathogens.
Signs of a fast-progressing SSTI?
Disproportionate pain, skin sloughing, gas in the tissue on imaging
Define nosocomial
Health care acquired
Most common pathogen for nosocomial acquired SSTIs?
Staphylococcus aureus
Examples of nosocomial SSTIs?
Surgical site infection, IV catheter site infection, pressure areas in immobile patients
When should you switch to oral therapy?
ASAP
Minimal duration for ABs in SSTIs?
5 days