Staphylococcal bacteria are commonly found on human skin and many surfaces. If they remain on the surface of the skin, these bacteria generally don't cause problems. However, if it gets into the skin through cuts, scrapes, or insect bites, these bacteria can cause problems. These bacteria can cause infection in the wound, and if left unchecked, can cause death. You should see a doctor if you suspect a staphylococcal bacterial infection.
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Method 1 of 2: Seeking Treatment
Step 1. Watch for signs of infection
A staphylococcal infection may appear reddened and swollen. In addition, pus may also come out. In fact, this infection can be very similar to a spider bite. Your skin may also feel warm. These symptoms are usually felt near the cut or cut. Pus or other fluid may also come out of the wound.
Step 2. Seek medical attention as soon as possible
A staphylococcal bacterial infection can develop into a serious infection quickly. Therefore, if you suspect you are infected with this bacterium, you should contact your doctor. Your doctor may ask you to come for a check-up as soon as possible and provide immediate treatment instructions.
It is even more important to see a doctor, especially if you have signs of infection as well as fever. Your doctor may need to check your condition immediately or ask you to go to the emergency room for immediate treatment
Step 3. Clean the wound area with antibiotic soap
Gently wash the infected area with soap and warm water. You can also use a washcloth as long as it's used gently. However, you should not use the same washcloth before washing it first. Do not try to squeeze the blisters as this will only spread the infection. If the fluid in your wound needs to be drained, it's best that your doctor do it.
- Be sure to wash your hands after cleaning the wound area.
- When drying the wound, use a clean towel. Do not use this towel again before washing it first.
Step 4. Ask if the doctor will take a sample
The doctor may need to analyze a tissue sample or culture. The goal is to check for the strain of infecting bacteria you are experiencing. Once identified, the doctor can determine the appropriate antibiotic for the bacteria.
Step 5. Be aware that the doctor may drain fluid from the wound
If you have a severe infection that causes an abscess or skin inflammation/boil (furuncles), your doctor may drain the pus from it. You shouldn't feel too much pain as the doctor will try to anesthetize the area first.
To remove fluid from the wound, the doctor will usually use a scalpel and cut the surface of the wound. After that, the doctor will let the fluid from inside the wound drain out. If the wound is large enough, the doctor may apply gauze, which will have to be removed at a later date
Step 6. Ask about the use of antibiotics
In most cases of staphylococcal infection, you will have to take antibiotics. One of the reasons this bacterium is so dangerous is that some of its strains are resistant to certain classes of antibiotics. For example, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which must be treated with intravenous antibiotics.
- Generally, you should use a cephalosporin, nafcillin, or sulfa antibiotic. However, you may also need to use vancomycin, which is less resistant. The disadvantage of using this drug is that it must be given intravenously by a doctor.
- The side effect of vancomycin is the possibility of a severe and itchy rash. This rash usually appears on the neck, face, and upper body.
- You can't just look at the infection and tell if it's caused by staphylococcal bacteria or MRSA.
Step 7. Understand when surgery is needed
Occasionally, staphylococcal infections can develop around implanted medical devices or prosthetic devices. If this happens, you will need to have surgery to remove the device.
Step 8. Be aware of this complication in other injuries
A staphylococcal infection can be a problem in a number of situations, such as when you have surgery. You can also develop a serious condition called septic arthritis when staphylococcal bacteria get into your joints, which sometimes occurs when these bacteria are in your bloodstream.
If you have septic arthritis, you will have a hard time using the joint. You may also feel a little sore, as well as experience swelling and redness. You should immediately visit a doctor if you experience these symptoms
Method 2 of 2: Preventing Staphylococcal Infection
Step 1. Wash your hands frequently
Staphylococcal bacteria gather on the surface of the skin, including under the nails. By washing your hands, you can minimize the possibility of these bacteria getting into a cut or scab.
It's a good idea to rub your hands for 20-30 seconds with soap and warm water while washing your hands. After that, you should use a disposable towel. Turn off the water tap with a towel so you don't come into contact with the bacterial surface again after washing your hands
Step 2. Clean and close the incision
If you have a cut or cut, you should cover it with a bandage after cleaning. Using an antibiotic ointment is also a good move. This treatment will help keep the staphylococcal infection away from the wound.
Step 3. Wear gloves if you have to treat the wound yourself
If you have to treat a wound yourself or someone else, it's a good idea to wear clean gloves if possible. If not, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after you're done and try not to touch the wound with your bare hands. You can apply antibiotic ointment to the bandage before applying it so it doesn't have to come into contact with the wound.
Step 4. Take a shower after exercising
You can catch a staphylococcal infection in a gym, hot tub, or steam room. So, make sure to take a shower after your workout to clean it up. Always make sure your bathroom is clean and don't share personal items such as razors, towels and soap with other people.
Step 5. Change tampons frequently
Toxic shock syndrome is a type of staphylococcal infection and is often caused by wearing a tampon for more than 8 hours. Try to change your tampon every 4-8 hours, and choose the lightest tampon you can use. If you use a tampon that is too absorbent, the risk of staphylococcal infection increases.
If you're concerned about toxic shock syndrome, try using other methods during your period, such as using sanitary napkins
Step 6. Raise the water temperature
When washing clothes, sheets, and towels, use hot water. Hot water can help kill the staphylococcal bacteria from infecting your body.
