SUPERBUGS AND ANTIBIOTICS: BACTERIAL SELECTION AND THE EMERGENCE OF MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT STRAINS IN THE HOSPITAL SETTING
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63330/aurumpub.049-001Keywords:
Antimicrobial resistance, Superbugs, Hospital infection, Antibiotics, Public healthAbstract
Antimicrobial resistance represents one of the main challenges of contemporary medicine, especially in the hospital environment, where the selective pressure exerted by the intensive use of antibiotics favors the emergence of multidrug-resistant microorganisms. This article aims to analyze the mechanisms of bacterial selection, the determinants of the dissemination of resistant strains, and prevention and control strategies in the hospital context. This is a narrative review based on recent literature, addressing microbiological, clinical, and epidemiological aspects. It is observed that the interaction between inappropriate use of antimicrobials, failures in infection control measures, and intrinsic characteristics of pathogens contributes significantly to the chronicity of the problem. It is concluded that the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs, epidemiological surveillance, and rigorous control measures are essential to contain the progression of resistance.
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