Investigation of Nasal Colonization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Among Nursing Students at a University in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Abstract Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the important pathogenic bacteria within the hospital and the community. Asymptotic nasal carriers are potential sources for transmission and subsequent infection. Objectives of this study were to determine the MRSA nasal colonization among nursing students of the Department of Nursing, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka and to assess associated risk factors. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study which was conducted from January 2020 to March 2020 with voluntary participation of 135 nursing students. Relevant data were collected by using a pre-tested, selfadministrated questionnaire. Participants were requested to collect nasal swabs to investigate colonization of MRSA. Routine standard microbiological methods were used to isolate Staphylococcus aureus and cefoxitin disk diffusion method used to detect methicillin sensitivity. Collected data were statistically analyzed and the possible associations with risk factors were assessed by cross tabulations and chi-square test. Total of 135 participants constituted with 34 males and 101 females between 21-27 years. Out of them 15.56% (21/135) were identified as colonized with Staphylococcus aureus and 5.19 % (7/135) were MRSA. History of skin infection was the only known risk factor identified as associated with MRSA nasal colonization (OR=26, CI=2.99-226.13, p=0.00). Although identified MRSA colonizers are relatively low in the present study they are potential candidates for transmission and is a concern in healthcare facilities. As screening programs are limited in Sri Lanka due to lack of facilities and financial resources, students should be emphasized regarding simple preventive measures such as hand hygiene.