Antibiotic resistance in the neonatal intensive care unit

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are an increasing problem in the NICU. Ineffective empiric antibiotic therapy is associated with increased risk for morbidity and mortality. Organisms that are resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents (multidrug-resistant organisms) are particularly problematic. These organisms may be transmitted to infants if infection control practices are not adhered to, or they may be created by antibiotic exposure. Therefore, meticulous infection prevention—including hand hygiene, surveillance cultures, contact precautions, and selective decolonization—and antibiotic stewardship are important strategies to minimize drug resistance in the NICU.