What are multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs)?

Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) refer specifically to pathogens that have developed resistance to multiple antibiotics, making them particularly challenging to treat. This resistance occurs through various mechanisms, including genetic mutations and the acquisition of resistance genes. As a result, MDROs can lead to severe infections that do not respond to standard antibiotic treatments, which poses significant risks in healthcare settings where vulnerable populations are present.

Understanding MDROs is crucial for infection control practices, as they require careful management and specific protocols to prevent their spread and to protect patients. Awareness of the existence and characteristics of these organisms underlines the importance of antibiotic stewardship and the need for ongoing research in developing new treatment options.