SSTIs

Question 1

Define SSTI

Answer 1

Skin and soft tissue infection

Question 2

SSTIs are commonly associated with which comorbidities?

Answer 2

Obesity, vascular disease, T2DM

Question 3

When are antibiotics used for boils?

Answer 3

Only if there is cellulitis and redness around the boil. If not, can just drain it

Question 4

Main antibiotic that can be used for MRSA?

Answer 4

Vancomycin

Question 5

Why should you ask patients about their exposure when presenting with an SSTI?

Answer 5

Depending on where they have been, they may be at risk for particular pathogens.
E.g. fresh water (the floods), salt water, animal bites, all have their own pathogens associated

Question 6

Treatment for rapidly progressing SSTIs?

Answer 6

Need to ensure you use a broad spectrum AB that will cover the most damaging pathogens.

Question 7

Signs of a fast-progressing SSTI?

Answer 7

Disproportionate pain, skin sloughing, gas in the tissue on imaging

Question 8

Define nosocomial

Answer 8

Health care acquired

Question 9

Most common pathogen for nosocomial acquired SSTIs?

Answer 9

Staphylococcus aureus

Question 10

Examples of nosocomial SSTIs?

Answer 10

Surgical site infection, IV catheter site infection, pressure areas in immobile patients

Question 11

When should you switch to oral therapy?

Answer 11

ASAP

Question 12

Minimal duration for ABs in SSTIs?

Answer 12

5 days