Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated From Nasal Carriers Among Healthcare Workers in Nigerian Tertiary Hospitals
Background
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains a major healthcare-associated pathogen responsible for significant morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Healthcare workers can serve as asymptomatic reservoirs and facilitate transmission of MRSA within hospital settings. Colonization among healthcare personnel may contribute to outbreaks, particularly among vulnerable patients. Molecular characterization of MRSA strains provides valuable information regarding transmission dynamics and resistance mechanisms. Despite growing concerns regarding antimicrobial resistance, data on MRSA carriage among healthcare workers in many Nigerian hospitals remain limited. This study seeks to determine the prevalence and molecular characteristics of MRSA among healthcare workers in tertiary healthcare institutions.
Research Objectives
- Determine the prevalence of nasal MRSA carriage among healthcare workers.
- Assess antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of MRSA isolates.
- Characterize resistance-associated genes using molecular methods.
- Evaluate occupational risk factors associated with MRSA colonization.
- Compare MRSA prevalence across professional categories.
Research Questions
- What is the prevalence of MRSA nasal carriage among healthcare workers?
- What antimicrobial resistance patterns are exhibited by the isolates?
- Which resistance genes are commonly detected?
- What occupational factors are associated with MRSA colonization?
- Are there differences in carriage rates among healthcare professions?
Suggested Methodology
A hospital-based cross-sectional study will be conducted among healthcare workers. Nasal swab specimens will be collected and cultured using standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and PCR-based detection of resistance genes will be performed. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses will evaluate prevalence and associated factors.
Suggested Sample
Keywords
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