[Antibiotic resistance: development in surgical intensive care]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Context:

• Rising antibiotic resistance is a global health concern.
• Increased antibiotic consumption and prescribing errors contribute to resistance.
• Demographic aging and advancements in medicine increase the number of at-risk patients.

Purpose:

• To describe the general development of bacterial resistance and influencing factors.
• To evaluate data from intensive care units regarding antibiotic resistance.
• To identify key antibiotic-resistant isolates in surgical settings and mechanisms to mitigate resistance.

Summary:

• Bacterial resistance is increasing, leading to severe clinical and economic problems.
• Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms are a significant challenge in surgery.
• Data from intensive care units highlight the prevalence of resistant isolates.

Impact:

• Strict adherence to antibiotic prescribing guidelines is essential, particularly in intensive care units.
• Implementing and controlling these guidelines can positively influence bacterial resistance.
• Further efforts are needed to optimize patient care and combat resistance despite existing knowledge.