Organisms cultured and resistance patterns seen in a secondary referral centre ICU and burns unit

Abstract

ertapenem, meropenem and colistin (12%, 0%, 5% and 0%, respectively). E. coli was seen to have high resistance to ampicillin (79%), but low resistance to co-amoxiclav (4%), ciprofloxacin (9%), piperacillin-tazobactam (0%), ertapenem (0%), meropenem (4%) and colistin (0%). Conclusion. This study demonstrates the prevalence of Gram-negative organisms in an SA government hospital ICU. It also demonstrates the presence of resistance mechanisms in the organisms cultured for almost all available classes of antibiotics, albeit some at low levels. The development of multi- and pan-resistant pathogenic organisms is both an SA and worldwide problem. In particular, the threat posed by resistant Gram-negative bacteria is likely to manifest itself in ICUs where septic patients unresponsive to standard antimicrobial regimens will inevitably end up. Frequent assessment of resistance patterns and appropriately designed empirical treatment protocols must remain a priority for all critical care departments.