Can We Overcome the Antimicrobial Resistance in Hospital?

Yoo, Jin Hong

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance in the hospital is the most important challenging issue in the field of nosocomial infection control. Several nationwide surveys performed so far revealed that various profiles of resistance were already stablished in Korea: the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was more than 70%; vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus was around 15%; resistance to third generation cephalosporins and aminoglycosides were around 30%, and so on. Although there remains some controversy, association between the development of antimicrobial resistance and the adverse clinical outcome does exist as supported by many studies worldwide. Therefore, combating and overcoming the antimicrobial resistance in the hospital is the most urgent task to solve. For the purpose of eradicating the antimicrobial resistance, we should use a two-edged sword: antimicrobial stewardship and hospital infection control. Regulation of antimicrobials could prevent the emergence of resistance, While infection control and precaution could contain the further spread of resistant organisms. In addition to these, futher aggressive strategy could be used for some species, e.g., active surveillance and \lquote search and destroy\rquote decolonization for MRSA. In conclusion, continuous education of appropriate antimicrobial prescription, implementation of proper precautions, and systematic approach to the infection control via organization of specialized personnel are sine qua non in overcoming the antimicrobial resistance in the hospital.