Phenotypic Detection of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus on Physicians’ White Coats

Abstract

This is laboratory-based study, carried out during the period from April to June, 2015 to detect Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on physicians’ white coats. The bacterial isolates (n=14) were obtained from the Research Laboratory, Sudan University of Science and Technology. Purity of the isolates was checked by streaking on nutrient agar and examined microscopically. Gram stain and biochemical tests were used to confirm the identity of the isolates. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was detected by Kirby-Baur disk diffusion technique. The results showed that re-identified isolates were Staphylococcus epidermidis 5 (35.7%), Staphylococcus aureus 4(28.6%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 3 (21.4%), Staphylococcus intermedius 2 (14.3%). Study on detection of MRSA revealed that only two (50%) out of 4 Staphylococcus aureus were MRSA. It is concluded that physicians’ white coats may be contaminated with Methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus. Proper handling of white coats by physicians is highly recommended.