Staphylococcus epidermidis is a gram-positive, coagulase-negative cocci that is a part of our normal flora. Consequently, it is a true opportunistic pathogen, as it requires a major breach in the host’s innate defenses. It is one of the leading pathogens of nosocomial infections, particularly associated with foreign body infections. Those most susceptible to infection are intravenous drug users, newborns, elderly, and those using catheters or other artificial appliances. The organism produces a glycocalyx "slime" that acts as a glue adhering it to plastic and cells, and also causes resistance to phagocytosis and some antibiotics.The S. epidermidis family contributes to approximately 65-90% of all staphylococci recovered from human aerobic flora. Healthy individuals can posses up to 24 strains of the species, some of which can survive on a dry surface for long periods. (Nilsson, et al. 1998). It is approximately 0.5 to 1.5 micrometers in diameter. While S. epidermidis is a facultative anaerobe, it grows best in aerobic conditions. The hosts for the organism are humans and other warm-blooded animals.