Which bacterium commonly colonizes the anterior nose and skin and is associated with infections in nursing homes?

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that commonly inhabits the anterior nares (the front part of the nasal cavity) and the skin of healthy individuals. This bacterium is significant in the context of nursing home infections due to its ability to cause a variety of infections, including skin infections, respiratory infections, and more serious conditions like pneumonia and bloodstream infections.

In nursing homes, where residents may have compromised immune systems and frequent close contact with one another, Staphylococcus aureus can easily spread and lead to outbreaks. The bacterium can also present as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which is particularly concerning as it is resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat.

Understanding the role of Staphylococcus aureus in infection control is essential for developing effective prevention strategies in nursing homes. This includes proper hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and monitoring for signs of infection among residents, all crucial for reducing the risk of transmission and protecting vulnerable populations.