Definition of a Staph Infection

Staph infection is commonly found in hospitals and often affects those with compromised immune systems, surgical wounds and burns. Staph infections can be difficult to treat. According to Mayo Clinic, "fewer than 10 percent of today's staph infections can be cured with penicillin. Up to half of the staph bacteria found in hospitals are resistant to methicillin, another common antibiotic."

Significance

• According to Mayo Clinic, "Staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria, a type of germ commonly found on the skin or in the nose of even healthy individuals."

Identification

• Physicians detect staph infections via a tissue sample or nasal secretion examination.

Causes

• Staph infections are caused by person-to-person contact or by touching contaminated objects, such as pillowcases or towels.

Effects

• Skin infections, such as boils, cellulitis and impetigo may develop as a result of staph infections. In some cases, staph infections can be life-threatening. If staph bacteria gets into your bloodstream, you may develop sepsis, a potentially life-threatening infection, according to Mayo Clinic.

Prevention/Solution

• Keep your hands clean; wash your hands frequently or use a 62 percent or high alcohol-containing hand sanitizer. In addition, keep wounds clean by using sterile bandages until they completely heal.