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Carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in the elderly
R M Parnaby1, G O'Dwyer, H A Monsey
1Central Middlesex PHL and NHS Trust, London, UK.
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|July 1, 1996
Summary
One in three elderly inpatients carry Staphylococcus aureus, with a 2.9% incidence rate for MRSA. Screening nostrils and skin breaks is most cost-effective for detecting carriage.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), is a significant healthcare-associated pathogen.
- Understanding carriage rates and risk factors in elderly inpatients is crucial for infection control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the point prevalence and incidence of Staphylococcus aureus carriage in elderly inpatients.
- To determine the relationship between carriage, body site, and previous healthcare exposures.
- To identify cost-effective screening strategies.
Main Methods:
- A point prevalence study of 55 patients and a two-month incidence study of 136 patients were conducted.
- Data collected included S. aureus carriage status, body site of isolation, and patient history.
- Statistical analysis was used to determine associations and incidence rates.
Main Results:
- One in three elderly inpatients carried S. aureus; 1 in 20 were infected.
- The incidence rate for MRSA was 2.9%.
- Nostril carriage was significantly associated with overall carriage, while skin breaks were significant in the prevalence survey. No endemic strain was identified.
Conclusions:
- Nostril and skin break screening are cost-effective methods for identifying S. aureus carriage in this population.
- Targeted screening can improve infection control measures for elderly inpatients.
- Further research into endemic strains may be warranted.
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