Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What should a community health nurse know about methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA)?

1. MRSA is usually a hospital-acquired infection

2. Persons with MRSA typically have a chronic illness

3. MRSA is becoming more common in the community

4. VRE follows MRSA infections

The correct answer is: MRSA is becoming more common in the community

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern due to its prevalence in community settings, as well as in healthcare facilities. While MRSA was initially more common in hospitals among individuals with certain risk factors, such as those with open wounds or chronic illnesses, there has been a notable rise in community-associated MRSA infections. This shift means that MRSA is no longer confined to hospital settings and can affect otherwise healthy individuals in the community. Understanding that MRSA is becoming more common in the community helps community health nurses provide appropriate education, prevention strategies, and interventions aimed at reducing transmission. This knowledge supports public health initiatives and awareness campaigns focused on hygiene practices, recognizing signs of infection, and seeking timely medical care for potential MRSA-related issues. In contrast, while MRSA can be associated with hospitalized patients or those with chronic illnesses, many cases now occur in healthy individuals, making the second choice less comprehensive. The first option does not accurately reflect the current trend of MRSA as a community issue. The last option, concerning vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE), does not directly relate to the prevalence or characteristics of MRSA itself. Thus, understanding the rise of MRSA within community settings