Abstract
Background: Multidrug resistant organisms present a global health challenge. The Canterbury District Health Board identifies four MDROs of concern in their Multidrug Resistant Organisms Control policy (2021): Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus (MRSA), Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CpE), Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE). The aim of this integrated review is to examine the research evidence regarding the epidemiology in Aotearoa-New Zealand and Australia of the four MDROs of concern.
Methods: An integrative literature review approach as described by Whittemore and Knafl (2005) was utilised to investigate the epidemiology of MDROs in the Aotearoa-New Zealand and Australian context. Inclusion criteria were publication date between 2011-2022, English language, Australian, Aotearoa-New Zealand, MDROs. 13 articles met the inclusion criteria and were appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Quality Appraisal Tools.
Results: Three categories were identifiable across the articles. The first was that there is evidence of MDRO infections across Australia, however, there is limited data on MDROs in Aotearoa--New Zealand. The second category was that independent risk factors were identifiable for MDRO infection and colonisation. The third category was that risks of morbidity and mortality were greater among patients with MDRO infections.
Clinical Relevance: This review highlights three important factors of clinical relevance. First, that there is an ongoing need for antimicrobial stewardship. Second, an ongoing effort needs to be made to address the health inequities that exist between indigenous people and their non-indigenous counterparts. Third, wounds and medical devices need to be monitored to prevent the development of MDRO infections.