Final answer:
Health care-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) is a severe infection that commonly occurs in healthcare facilities and is spread via skin-to-skin contact and exposure to contaminated surfaces. It arises due to the resistance developed by bacteria to antibiotics as a result of their overuse. Immunocompromised patients in hospitals are especially susceptible to this infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Health care-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) typically occurs in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and nursing homes, where it is spread through skin-to-skin contact and contact with contaminated surfaces. Due to the overuse and imprudent use of antibiotics, certain strains of bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus have developed resistance to these drugs, including methicillin, amoxicillin, penicillin, and oxacillin. The condition presents a significant problem in healthcare facilities as it is often transferred to health care providers and other patients from colonized individuals. Immunocompromised patients are particularly at risk of HA-MRSA which can lead to severe infections such as bloodstream infections, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and infections at surgical sites.