Microbiological and bacterial resistance profile in a pediatric intensive care unit: importance of antimicrobial management

Abstract

Objective: To describe the microbiological and resistance profile of bacteria, their resistance mechanisms, present the antimicrobial therapy for patients, and correlate age group and sex with the bacterial infection profile. Methods: Retrospective, descriptive, epidemiological, and observational study conducted in a pediatric intensive care unit at a university hospital. Secondary data were collected from patients admitted between august and december 2023. Results: During the five-month period, 31.62% of hospitalized patients were diagnosed with bacterial infections, showing microbiological growth. The most common infections were bloodstream and respiratory tract infections, primarily in infants and children under five years of age, with a predominance of males. The microbiological profile showed a high prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while the resistance profile indicated high resistance to quinolones, cephalosporins, and penicillins. The most frequent resistance mechanisms were the production of β-lactamase enzymes. Carbapenems were the most frequently used antimicrobial therapy. Conclusion: The antimicrobial stewardship program plays a crucial role in optimizing antimicrobial prescribing. The active involvement of clinical pharmacists is essential to ensure the rational use, effectiveness, and safety of treatments for critically ill pediatric patients.