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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
Prevention and control of antimicrobial-resistant infections in intensive care patients
Cassandra D Salgado1, Naomi O'Grady, Barry M Farr
1Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
Objective:
To review the literature summarizing important aspects of infection control in the critical care setting and to provide recommendations to reduce infections with resistant bacteria in the intensive care unit.
Data Source:
Computer searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library.
Data:
The frequency of antibiotic-resistant, health care-associated infections has increased every year for the past 2 decades. Infections with antibiotic-resistant organisms have been linked to increases in morbidity, length of hospitalization, increased healthcare costs, and increased mortality. A comprehensive approach is necessary to prevent antimicrobial resistance in ICUs. This includes (1) preventing infections; (2) diagnosing and treating infections appropriately; (3) using antimicrobials wisely; and (4) preventing transmission.
Conclusions:
The reservoirs for antibiotic-resistant organisms are colonized patients, and the vectors are often healthcare workers. This places an enormous responsibility on healthcare providers to protect their patients. Clinicians must recognize the importance of adhering to the recommendations in the Centers for Disease Control's Campaign to Prevent Antimicrobial Resistance in the healthcare setting.
Insights
Healthcare workers are key to preventing the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in intensive care units (ICUs). Adhering to infection control recommendations is crucial for reducing healthcare-associated infections and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Healthcare-associated infections caused by antibiotic-resistant organisms are a growing global concern.
- These infections lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.
- Intensive care units (ICUs) are particularly vulnerable settings for resistant bacterial infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on infection control in critical care.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for reducing resistant bacterial infections in ICUs.
- To emphasize the role of healthcare workers in preventing antimicrobial resistance.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of major medical databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library).
- Synthesis of findings related to infection control strategies and antimicrobial resistance.
- Identification of key reservoirs and transmission vectors for resistant organisms.
Main Results:
- Antibiotic-resistant infections have steadily increased over the past two decades.
- These infections are associated with prolonged hospital stays, higher costs, and increased mortality.
- A multi-faceted approach including infection prevention, appropriate diagnosis/treatment, judicious antimicrobial use, and transmission control is essential.
Conclusions:
- Colonized patients serve as reservoirs for resistant organisms, with healthcare workers acting as frequent vectors.
- Healthcare providers bear significant responsibility for patient protection.
- Adherence to guidelines, such as those from the Centers for Disease Control's Campaign to Prevent Antimicrobial Resistance, is paramount.
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