Transient Skin Microflora

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Transient flora at one site may be resident bacteria at another site on the body. For example, gram negative bacteria on the hands. It may be very well known pathogens, for example hands of health care workers carrying MRSA.

Transient bacteria:

• Increases with direct patient contact
• Increases with specific activities (handling of body fluids, respirator care)
• Decreases with glove use and hand washing.