Tissue Swab: Staphylococcus epidermidis – Shipped May 11, 2020- FINAL RESULTS
HISTORY
A simulated tissue swab sample collected from a 73-year-old female with a prosthetic hip infec-tion was sent to category A laboratories.
Participants were expected to isolate and identify Staphylococcus epidermidis and perform susceptibility testing.
MAIN EDUCATIONAL POINTS from M201-5
- Coagulase-negative staphylococci remain a major cause of device-associated infections, including in prosthetic joints. Laboratories should be able to identify and perform susceptibility testing on clinically relevant isolates.
- Susceptibility testing for coagulase-negative staphylococci is complex with species-specific guidelines and interpretations. Laboratories are encouraged to regularly review these and ensure that their standard operating protocols reflect current best practices and guideline recommendations.