Bloodstream infection due to Staphylococcus aureus

Antimicrobial prescribing: NHS Borders
NHS Borders

Staphylococcus aureus sepsis is a serious condition and can be associated with deep seated infections and severe sequelae. Any patient with blood cultures positive for S.aureus must be treated with a minimum of 2 weeks IV antibiotic therapy. If investigations show a deep seated source, longer treatment will be required, please discuss with microbiology.

Follow the Scottish Antimicrobial Prescribing Group (SAPG) Guidance on management of proven or suspected Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB) in adults algorithm at:

https://www.sapg.scot/media/7555/20230215-sapg-sab-flow-diagram-v13-a3-0-1.pdf

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 30/06/2025

Next review date: 30/06/2028

Author(s): Duguid, A.

Version: 2.0

Co-Author(s): James, E.

Approved By: NHS Borders Antimicrobial Management Team

Reviewer name(s): Duguid, A.