ABSTRACT
Objective:
Evaluate the prevalence of colonization by Staphylococcus aureus in saliva and nasal secretion of nursing professionals who provide care to people with HIV/AIDS and identify measures of association between colonized and non-colonized professionals with demographic and professional variables.
Methods:
This is a cross-sectional study with nursing professionals from five health centers. Samples of saliva and nasal secretions were obtained in three stages.
Results:
The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus was 43.0%. Storing the toothbrush in a closed/protected compartment was a risk factor for colonization. Knowledge of standard precautions and participation in training were a protective factor for non-colonization.
Conclusion:
The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in saliva and nasal secretions of the nursing staff was high. The adoption of standard precautions measures and control of pathogens are essential for the practice of nursing and patient safety.
Keywords:
Staphylococcus aureus; Methicillin resistance; Nursing staff