Skin Infections (Cellulitis, MRSA): NCLEX Priorities
Cellulitis vs abscess vs necrotizing fasciitis: recognition, antibiotic selection.
Skin and soft tissue infections range from cellulitis to necrotizing fasciitis. NCLEX tests recognition and emergency recognition.
Cellulitis
Diffuse erythema, warmth, tenderness, edema. Strep most common; Staph (including MRSA) common. Mark borders to track. Treat: cephalexin (or clindamycin for MRSA coverage).
Abscess
Fluctuant collection. I&D primary treatment. Antibiotics adjunctive if surrounding cellulitis.
Necrotizing fasciitis
Severe pain out of proportion, rapidly spreading, systemic toxicity, crepitus, skin necrosis. Surgical emergency. Broad antibiotics + immediate surgical debridement. Mortality 20-40%.
Frequently asked
MRSA empiric coverage?
Outpatient: Bactrim, doxycycline, clindamycin. Inpatient severe: vancomycin.
When elevate the limb?
Cellulitis, yes, reduces edema.
Quick check
Loading a question…
How ready are you right now?
10 real NCLEX questions, free, in your browser. See how close you are to ready and which subjects are costing you.
Try 10 questions free