There is outbreak of infection with staphylococcus in a burn ward. Best site to take a swab ?
**Core Concept**
The question is testing the knowledge of the most likely site of colonization or infection in a burn patient with a Staphylococcus outbreak. Staphylococci are common skin flora, and in burn patients, they can cause serious infections. The site chosen for swabbing should be where the bacteria are likely to be present.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct site for swabbing in a burn patient with a Staphylococcus outbreak is the **nares**. This is because Staphylococcus aureus, a common pathogen in burn infections, is often found in the anterior nares (nostrils) of healthy individuals. The bacteria can colonize the nares and then spread to other parts of the body, including the burn wounds. The nares are a common reservoir for Staphylococcus aureus, making them a key site for swabbing in outbreak situations.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** The axilla is another common site for Staphylococcus aureus colonization, but it is not the best site for swabbing in a burn patient with an outbreak.
* **Option B:** The throat is not typically a site for Staphylococcus aureus colonization.
* **Option C:** The skin surrounding the burn wound is a potential site for infection, but swabbing this area may not be as sensitive for detecting Staphylococcus aureus colonization as swabbing the nares.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In outbreak situations, swabbing the nares is often considered a more sensitive and specific method for detecting Staphylococcus aureus colonization than swabbing other sites. This is because the nares are a common reservoir for the bacteria and are often the source of infection.
**Correct Answer: C. The nares.**