What is true regarding methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)? Select all that apply

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is indeed resistant to penicillin, which is important to highlight because it has evolved mechanisms that allow it to survive despite the presence of this antibiotic. This resistance stems from the acquisition of the mecA gene, which encodes a penicillin-binding protein that does not effectively bind beta-lactam antibiotics, including methicillin and other penicillins.

In addition to penicillin resistance, MRSA can cause a range of infections, including surgical site infections and bloodstream infections, making it a significant pathogen in healthcare settings. This is critical for understanding the implications when patients are prepped for surgery or when they present with systemic infection signs.

Hand hygiene is a vital component of infection prevention and control measures. Alcohol-based hand rubs have been shown to be effective in reducing the transmission of MRSA in both hospital and community settings, emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene practices in reducing infection rates.

It's essential to recognize that MRSA is not susceptible to many cephalosporins (with some exceptions), and listing susceptibility to carbapenems is misleading, as resistance patterns can vary. However, the focus here lies on understanding that MRSA poses significant risks and requires robust preventive measures and awareness of its resistance