Final answer:
Suitable antimicrobials for controlling common strains of S. aureus include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, clindamycin, doxycycline, minocycline, or linezolid. Cefoxitin and oxacillin are effective for strains without resistance, as per AST results. Completing the full course of antibiotics is critical to preventing the survival of resistant strains.
Step-by-step explanation:
Appropriate Antimicrobials for S. aureus Control:
When dealing with S. aureus, it's essential to select appropriate antimicrobial therapy. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant challenge due to its resistance to common antibiotics. For suspected S. aureus infections, including MRSA, initial antimicrobial options include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMZ), clindamycin, doxycycline, minocycline, or linezolid. If S. aureus strain is determined to be susceptible to cefoxitin and oxacillin through antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), these may be used effectively.
An important consideration in antibiotic treatment is ensuring the entire course is taken, to prevent resistant strains from surviving and causing further issues.
When immediate treatment is necessary before causative agents are identified, especially in serious systemic infections, broad-spectrum antimicrobials may be used. Narrow-spectrum antimicrobials, such as cefoxitin and oxacillin, are preferred when AST results are available, to minimize the risk of fostering resistance and superinfection.