Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment options for skin and soft tissue infection caused by community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
OBJECTIVE
This article reviews the evolving epidemiology of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) and the appropriate outpatient management of CA-MRSA skin and soft tissue infection. Further, the paper will provide the basis upon which an individualized patient educational plan may be developed.


METHODS
To complete this review, a search of English language publications was conducted through Medline and CINAHL databases (1966-2006).


CONCLUSIONS
The epidemiology of CA-MRSA is becoming increasingly complex. Research that addresses the impact of this organism in high-risk populations and within families is urgently needed.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurse practitioners must remain informed of the epidemiology of common and emerging drug-resistant organisms in their patient populations.
Farley
Jason E
JE
School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA. jfarley@son.jhmi.edu
D021821:Communicable Diseases, Emerging / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D017714:Community-Acquired Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D016106:Methicillin Resistance; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests; D017720:Molecular Epidemiology; D009722:Nurse Practitioners / Q000458:organization & administration*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D018461:Soft Tissue Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D013207:Staphylococcal Skin Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus