Antibiotic Resistance - Managing Resistant Infections in Nursing Practice

Course overview

Educational Objectives: After completing this activity, learners will be able to: 1. Understand the antibiotic resistance mechanisms, including enzymatic inactivation, target alteration, decreased drug permeability, and metabolic pathway changes. 2. Identify key strategies for preventing the emergence and spread of resistant infections, including proper antimicrobial stewardship and infection control practices. 3. Recognize common healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and the role of invasive devices, patient flora, and healthcare environments in their transmission. 4. Differentiate between major resistant bacterial strains such as MRSA, VRE, and penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae, and understand their mechanisms of resistance and treatment options. 5. Apply knowledge of diagnostic techniques, including culture and sensitivity testing, to guide appropriate antibiotic selection and minimize the risk of resistance development.