Prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens in ICU Patients

Abstract

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) has become a major concern in the management of critically ill patients. ICU patients are particularly vulnerable to infections due to their compromised immune systems, invasive medical procedures, and prolonged hospital stays. MDR pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Enterobacteriaceae have been increasingly reported in these settings, leading to higher mortality rates, extended hospital stays, and the need for more aggressive treatment regimens. This study explores the prevalence of MDR pathogens in ICU patients, focusing on the challenges these pathogens present to clinicians. Furthermore, it investigates factors contributing to the high prevalence of MDR organisms, such as overuse and misuse of antibiotics, inadequate infection control practices, and the selective pressure created by prolonged hospitalizations.

Keywords: multidrug-resistant pathogens, ICU, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, MRSA, infection control, antibiotic resistance.