Pseudomonas aeruginosa Resistance to Empirical Antibiotics in Hospitalization Patients at RSUPH Adam Malik Medan

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 96 views

Pseudomonas aeruginosa Resistance to Empirical Antibiotics in Hospitalization Patients at RSUPH Adam Malik Medan

Burns are one of the most common types of trauma throughout the world, causing significant morbidity and mortality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 75% of deaths caused by burns are directly related to infection. Among the various microorganisms that cause infection, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most commonly found, with the prevalence of contamination ranging from 11% to 30% in burns. This study aims to describe the pattern of germ changes and antibiotic resistance patterns in inpatients who receive empirical antibiotic therapy at the Adam Malik Hajj Center General Hospital in Medan, Indonesia.

Burns are a significant public health concern, causing not only physical trauma but also emotional and psychological distress. The severity of burns can range from minor to severe, with the latter requiring immediate medical attention. Infection is a major complication of burns, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common pathogens responsible for burn wound infections. This bacterium is known for its ability to adapt to various environmental conditions and its resistance to antibiotics, making it a challenging pathogen to treat.

This study employed a descriptive research design, collecting samples from patients with burns at the Adam Malik Hajj Center General Hospital in Medan, Indonesia. The sampling method used was convenience sampling, where patients with burns were selected based on their availability and willingness to participate in the study. The data collection process involved swab culture and blood culture, which were performed on the first, fourth, and seventh days of hospitalization. The data obtained were presented in the form of tables and narration to facilitate understanding of the results.

During the study period, 30 cases of degree II-III burns were identified. On the first day, two types of germs were detected, namely Acinetobacter Baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. On the fourth day, Pseudomonas aeruginosa appeared in 9 cases (30%), while on the seventh day, the number of cases increased to 10 (33.3%). The results of the study indicate that there was no change in the type of germs during the observation period.

The antibiotic sensitivity test on Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed that only piperacillin-tazobactam was sensitive, while amikacin, ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone showed resistance. The results of the study highlight the importance of conducting routine antibiotic sensitivity testing to ensure appropriate therapy.

The study concludes that there was no change in the type of germs during the observation period. The antibiotic sensitivity test on Pseudomonas aeruginosa shows that only piperacillin-tazobactam is sensitive, while the other antibiotics tested showed resistance. The study emphasizes the need for medical personnel to conduct strict monitoring and routine sensitivity testing to ensure appropriate therapy.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known as one of the opportunist pathogens that is difficult to treat because of its adaptability to various environmental conditions and antibiotics. This resistance to antibiotics is a big challenge in burn care, considering that infection can worsen the patient's condition and increase the risk of death. In addition, the use of inappropriate empirical antibiotics can contribute to increasing resistance.

Microbial resistance to antibiotics is now a global issue. Therefore, it is essential for medical personnel to conduct strict monitoring and routine sensitivity testing to ensure appropriate therapy. The use of piperacillin-tazobactam, which is still sensitive, provides hope for effective treatment, but also emphasizes the need for further research to find better alternative treatments.

This study is expected to encourage awareness of the importance of infection control and the use of antibiotics wisely in hospitals, especially in patients with burns, to reduce the risk of resistance and increase clinical outcomes. The study highlights the need for medical personnel to conduct routine antibiotic sensitivity testing and to use antibiotics judiciously to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.

Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations are made:

Medical personnel should conduct routine antibiotic sensitivity testing to ensure appropriate therapy.
The use of piperacillin-tazobactam should be considered as a first-line treatment for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Further research is needed to find better alternative treatments for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Infection control measures should be implemented in hospitals to reduce the risk of resistance and increase clinical outcomes.

This study has several limitations, including:

The study was conducted in a single hospital, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
The study only included patients with degree II-III burns, which may not be representative of all burn patients.
The study did not control for other factors that may influence the development of antibiotic resistance.

Future studies should aim to:

Investigate the prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in burn patients in different hospitals and settings.
Examine the factors that contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Evaluate the effectiveness of different treatment regimens for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of conducting routine antibiotic sensitivity testing and using antibiotics judiciously to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. The study emphasizes the need for further research to find better alternative treatments for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. By implementing infection control measures and using antibiotics wisely, medical personnel can reduce the risk of resistance and increase clinical outcomes in patients with burns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pseudomonas aeruginosa Resistance to Empirical Antibiotics in Hospitalization Patients at RSUPH Adam Malik Medan

A: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the environment and can cause infections in humans, particularly in people with compromised immune systems or those who have been exposed to contaminated water or soil.

A: The symptoms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:

Fever
Chills
Coughing up blood or yellow or green mucus
Shortness of breath
Chest pain or discomfort
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle or joint pain

A: Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Laboratory tests may include:

Blood cultures
Urine cultures
Sputum cultures
Tissue biopsies

A: The treatment options for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection depend on the severity and location of the infection. Treatment may include:

Antibiotics: Piperacillin-tazobactam is often used as a first-line treatment for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Supportive care: Patients may require supportive care, such as oxygen therapy, to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue or to repair damaged organs.

A: The risk factors for developing Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection include:

Weakened immune system
Exposure to contaminated water or soil
History of previous infections
Presence of underlying medical conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Use of immunosuppressive medications

A: Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection can be prevented by:

Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and thoroughly
Avoiding exposure to contaminated water or soil
Using personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling potentially contaminated materials
Following proper infection control procedures in healthcare settings

A: The prognosis for patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection depends on the severity and location of the infection, as well as the patient's overall health and response to treatment. In general, patients with mild infections may recover fully with treatment, while those with severe infections may experience complications or require prolonged hospitalization.

A: The long-term consequences of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection can include:

Chronic lung disease
Kidney damage
Liver damage
Increased risk of secondary infections
Decreased quality of life

A: Healthcare providers can prevent the spread of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in healthcare settings by:

Following proper infection control procedures, such as hand hygiene and use of PPE
Implementing environmental cleaning and disinfection protocols
Monitoring patients for signs of infection and taking prompt action to prevent spread
Educating patients and families about the importance of infection control and prevention.