key term - HA-MRSA

Definition

HA-MRSA (Healthcare-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of bacterial infection resistant to many antibiotics, commonly acquired in healthcare settings. It often leads to severe skin and soft tissue infections among hospitalized patients.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HA-MRSA is primarily spread through direct contact with an infected wound or contaminated hands, usually in healthcare environments.
2. It can cause a range of infections, including skin and soft tissue infections, surgical site infections, and pneumonia.
3. Risk factors for HA-MRSA include recent hospitalization, surgery, long-term care facility residence, and having medical devices like catheters.
4. Treatment often requires the use of alternative antibiotics such as vancomycin since standard methicillin-based treatments are ineffective.
5. Preventive measures include rigorous hand hygiene practices, proper wound care, and isolation protocols for infected patients.

Review Questions

Related terms

Staphylococcus aureus:

A common bacterium found on the skin and respiratory tract that can cause various infections.

CA-MRSA:

Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus; involves infections occurring outside of healthcare settings.

Vancomycin:

An antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections resistant to other antibiotics, including MRSA.