Question

can s. aureus be present in or on a person who has no evidence of an infection?
○ yes; s. aureus is a common bacterium found in the bloodstream
○ yes, but only for very short periods of time (between touching a contaminated surface and washing the hands
○ yes; s. aureus is a common skin bacterium
○ no; s. aureus is associated only with infections
○ yes, but only non-mrsa strains are present in the absence of an infection

Explanation:

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a normal flora of the human skin and mucous membranes in many individuals without causing infection. This asymptomatic colonization is common, so it can be present without evidence of infection. The option stating it is a common skin bacterium correctly explains this.

Answer:

yes; S. aureus is a common skin bacterium