MDROs are defined as organisms resistant to at least one or more classes of antimicrobial agents. MDROs present significant risk to patients because of their limited therapeutic options for the infections they cause.
Common MDROs include:
- Candida kruseii
- Carbapenem resistant gram-negative organisms, such as Carbapenem resistant Enterobacteriaceae or Carbapenem resistant Pseudomonas
- Extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBLs) producing Gram-negative bacteria
- Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
- Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci (VRE)
Less Common MDROs with the potential to spread include:
- Candida auris
- Carbapenemase producing gram-negative bacteria
- Vancomycin resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Decreasing antimicrobial resistance requires antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention efforts. Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASP) reduce antimicrobial resistance by optimizing antimicrobial therapy. ASPs should exist for every practice setting. Programs should be in accordance with the CDC Core Elements for Antimicrobial Stewardship recommendations. More information can be found on the VDH Antimicrobial Stewardship Webpage. Infection prevention is a cornerstone for decreasing the transmission of MDROs. More information can be found on the VDH Infection Prevention Webpage.