Test Overview
PCR
Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of nosocomial infections such as bloodstream infections and surgical site infections with clinical manifestations ranging from pustules to sepsis and death. It is commonly found in the nose or on the skin of healthy individuals (asymptomatic carriers). Methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus are frequently encountered in healthcare settings, and represent nearly 60% of isolates from hospital-acquired Staphylococcus aureus in some North American and European healthcare facilities. In hospital settings, MRSA may be transmitted from patient to patient through the contaminated hands of healthcare workers. Risk factors for colonization with MRSA in healthcare settings include prolonged hospital stay, proximity to patients infected with MRSA, exposure to multiple and prolonged broad-spectrum antibiotic treatments, and MRSA carriage. MRSA infection is increased in patients colonized with MRSA.
Screening for Staphylococcus aureus, especially methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), is crucial for preventing infections in healthcare settings by identifying carriers and implementing targeted interventions like decolonization or isolation.
No Staphylococcus aureus DNA detected.
No MRSA DNA detected
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
Screening determines the colonization status at a given time. Colonization may vary depending upon patient treatment (e.g., decolonization regime), patient status (e.g., transient SA/MRSA colonization) or exposure to high-risk environments (e.g., contact with SA/MRSA carrier and/or prolonged hospitalization). Colonization status should be monitored according to institutional policies.
Test Details
Specimen Requirements
Nasal specimens should be collected according to the following:
1. Moisten the swab(s) with two drops (approximately 50 μL) of sterile physiological saline or use dry.
2. Carefully insert the swab(s) into the patient’s nostril (a swab tip should be inserted up to 2.5 cm [1 inch] from the edge of the nares).
3. Roll the swab(s) along the mucosa inside the nostril 5 times.
4. Insert the same swab(s) into the second nostril and repeat steps 2 and 3.
5. Place the swab(s) in its transport tube.
Refrigerated: Up to 5 days
Incorrect specimen transport