Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Which organism is the most common in burn-related infections?

1. Pseudomonas

2. Staphylococcus

3. Escherichia coli

4. Clostridium

The correct answer is: Pseudomonas

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is recognized as the most common organism associated with burn-related infections due to its unique characteristics and behavior in a clinical environment. This bacterium is an opportunistic pathogen that thrives in moist environments and can colonize burnt wounds, where the skin barrier is compromised. Pseudomonas has a remarkable ability to form biofilms on various surfaces, including biological tissues, which makes it particularly resilient against both the host's immune response and antibiotic treatment. In burn patients, the combination of impaired skin integrity, reduced blood supply, and potential exposure to external contaminants creates an ideal environment for Pseudomonas to infect and proliferate. While other organisms like Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli, and Clostridium may also be involved in infections, they are not as prevalent in burn cases as Pseudomonas. Staphylococcus may be found in polymicrobial infections and is common in skin-related infections but is less frequently the predominant pathogen in severe burn infections. Escherichia coli, typically associated with gastrointestinal infections, and Clostridium, linked to specific conditions like gas gangrene, do not represent the primary concern in burn cases compared to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Thus, the distinctive pathogenic