INFECTIONS CAUSED BY MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT MICROORGANISMS IN CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS: CLINICAL, ECONOMIC, AND HEALTHCARE IMPACTS ON THE SUS

Resumen

Infections caused by multidrug-resistant microorganisms represent one of the main contemporary challenges for healthcare, especially among critically ill patients admitted to intensive care units. This study aimed to analyze the clinical, economic, and healthcare impacts of infections caused by multidrug-resistant microorganisms within the context of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). This is a narrative literature review conducted through the analysis of national and international scientific publications available in indexed health databases, as well as institutional documents related to infection control and antimicrobial resistance. The results showed that the dissemination of these agents is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospital stays, greater need for intensive support, and higher hospital costs resulting from the use of more complex therapies and expanded consumption of healthcare resources. A significant impact on hospital management was also observed, with overload of healthcare teams and challenges in the effective implementation of prevention and control protocols. It is concluded that addressing infections caused by multidrug-resistant microorganisms requires integrated strategies involving epidemiological surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship programs, strengthening of patient safety practices, and structural investments in the SUS.