Staphylococcus Aureus Flashcards
What is staphylococcus aureus?
A gram positive, spherical and non-motile organism. It is ~1mcm in diameter and golden yellow
What does staph aureus colonise?
- Skin
- nasal passages
- GIT
Which patient groups are affected by hospital acquired MRSA?
- >60 year olds Those admitted / after procedures Immunocompromised Invasive medical procedures Colonised asymptomatic patients
Which patient group does community acquired MRSA affect?
Young and healthy patients
Give examples of skin conditions caused by MRSA
Mucosal membrane Pimples Boils Leg ulcers Pressure sores Cellulitis Wound infection Slapped cheek syndrome Necrotising fasciitis
Give examples of invasive conditions caused by MRSA
Surgical wound UTIs Septicaemia Pneumonia Endocarditis Osteomyelitis Septic arthritis Meningitis
What are the signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis?
Grittiness
Discharge
Pink eye
Itching
What is used to treat conjunctivitis?
Chloramphenicol drops 2 hrly / QDS or ointment QDS
Fusidic acid gel BD
How is a primary impetigo infection caused?
Through an infecting cut / bite or graze
How is a secondary impetigo infection caused?
When there is an underlying skin condition
What are the signs and symptoms of a bullous impetigo infection?
Affects trunk, arms, legs with large blisters
What are the signs and symptoms of a non-bullous impetigo infection?
Itchy sores with yellow brown crusts around mouth and nose
What are the complications of impetigo?
Lymphagitis Cellulitis Guttate psoriasis Scarlet fever Septicaemia
What can be used to treat impetigo?
Fusidic acid cream TDS/QDS
Mupirocin ointment TDS
Oral flucloxacillin QDS
Oral erythromycin QDS
What are complications of device related infections?
Endocarditis
Septicaemia
