Qom University of Medical Sciences Journal

Background and Objectives: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus strains, as one of the most important etiologic agents of nosocomial infections are of particular importance due to their ability to create potential cross-resistance to all beta-lactam agents. Nasal carriers in hospital staff are supposed to be the main sources of nosocomial infection. This study was conducted aiming at determining the frequency of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus strains isolated from nose of the personnel of Hadjar Hospital of Shahrekord.

Methods: In this descriptive study, nose swabs were collected from 204 personnel of the Hajar hospital of Shahrekord. At first, the nasal swab specimens were cultured on mannitol salt agar (MSA) and TSB. Then, the Staphylococcus strains were isolated and identified using standard microbiological methods, including catalase, coagulase, DNase, and mannitol fermentation tests. In continue, agar screen method was used to determine the susceptibility of the isolated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus strains. The results were statistically analyzed using chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests.

Results: According to the results obtained, 23 of 52 (44%) Staphylococcus aureus strains and 70 strains of 152 (46%) coagulase-negative staphylococcus strains were resistant to methicillin, using agar screen method. The highest percentage of Staphylococcus aureus carriers was isolated from the staff of infectious ward and from the experienced staff (6-10 years) of a special ward. Also, there was no significant relationship between personnel's work experience in the special ward or their workplace and being a carrier.

Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that the frequency of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus strains is considerable in the personnel of Hajar Hospital. Therefore, considering the risk of its resulting epidemics in nosocomial infections among hospital's personnel, it seems necessary to detect carriers to control and prevent nosocomial infections.