Distribution patterns and evolution of antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria within the intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital from 2019 to 2024

• Published in: Frontiers in microbiology Vol. 16; p. 1587132
• Main Authors: Chen, Xiaoying, Liu, Xin, Ren, Wenyan, Li, Hongyan, Yang, Siyun
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Switzerland Frontiers Media S.A 15.05.2025
• Subjects: antibiotic resistance; antimicrobial agents; distribution patterns; Gram-negative bacteria; intensive care unit (ICU); Microbiology; intensive care unit (ICU); Gram-negative bacteria; antimicrobial agents; antibiotic resistance; distribution patterns
• ISSN: 1664-302X; 1664-302X
• DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1587132

This study aims to investigate the distribution and drug resistance of Gram-negative bacteria in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary general hospital in Sichuan Province, with the goal of promoting rational antibiotic use and reducing multidrug resistance. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the distribution and drug resistance of Gram-negative bacteria in ICU samples collected from January 2019 to December 2024. A total of 83,944 culture samples were analyzed, primarily blood (45.27%) and sputum (41.34%) specimens, with a steady increase in sample types annually. A total of 7,211 strains were isolated, 76.43% of which were from respiratory tract specimens. The predominant pathogens included (31.17%), (30.11%), (14.05%), and (11.34%). The detection rates for (CRAB) were 61.88%, (CRKP) 29.28%, (CRPA) 5.80%, and (CREC) 3.04%. Susceptibility testing revealed fluctuating resistance rates for over the past 6 years. Notably, exhibited significant resistance to carbapenems (e.g., imipenem) and third-generation cephalosporins (e.g., ceftazidime). From 2019 to 2024, the ICU experienced a severe problem with Gram-negative drug-resistant bacteria, particularly resistant to third-generation cephalosporins. isolates demonstrated resistance to most antibiotics, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and the selection of effective antibiotics based on clinical practice.