Antimicrobial Resistance in Hospital-Acquired Infections: A Study on Pathogen Resistance Patterns

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) is a growing concern, impacting patient outcomes and healthcare management globally. The patterns of resistance among pathogens in hospital settings need continuous surveillance to guide treatment. Objective: This study aims to analyze the resistance patterns of pathogens causing hospital-acquired infections in a clinical setting, focusing on their prevalence, mechanisms, and resistance profiles. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology, Netrokona Medical College, from January 2023 to December 2024. The study sample included 144 patients diagnosed with hospital-acquired infections. Pathogen identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were carried out using standard microbiological techniques, including the disk diffusion method. Resistance patterns were analyzed for commonly implicated pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 26, calculating resistance rates, standard deviation, and p-values to assess significance. Results: Of the 144 patients, 82% (n=118) had multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections, with Klebsiella pneumoniae exhibiting the highest resistance at 90.5% against beta-lactams. The average resistance rate for Staphylococcus aureus was 75%, with a notable 68% resistance to methicillin. The mean standard deviation of resistance for all pathogens was 14.7%. Statistical analysis showed a significant association between prolonged hospitalization and resistance (p-value = 0.02). A further breakdown revealed a 12.3% increase in resistance over the study period, indicating the worsening trend. Resistance to carbapenems was observed in 27% of cases, with a significant rise (p-value = 0.03) in ICU patients. Conclusion: The study demonstrates a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in hospital-acquired infections, with notable increases in resistance rates over the study period. Enhanced infection control and antibiotic stewardship are critical to combating this threat.