Pathogens
Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus

Precautions

See 'Additional Information'

General Information

Gram positive cocci in clusters, Coagulase positive

Staph aureus is a ubiquitous organism that colonizes the skin/nares and can cause invasive disease.

MRSA risk factors include health care exposure (hospitalization) and antimicrobial use

Highly virulent organism

infection manifests as:

  • Pyogenic skin and soft tissue infection
  • MSK infection
  • Endocarditis
  • Abscess
  • Pneumonia
  • Infection of prosthetic devices and others

MSSA

Standard precautions.

MRSA

Contact precautions. Add droplet if patient has a cough.