What is a consequence of prolonged antibiotic use on HAIs?

Prolonged antibiotic use can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant organisms, which is a significant consequence concerning healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). When antibiotics are used excessively or inappropriately, bacteria can adapt and develop mechanisms to withstand the effects of these drugs. This resistance can occur through various biological mechanisms, such as mutation, gene transfer, or selective pressure, wherein the weaker bacteria are eliminated, leaving behind those that can survive antibiotic treatment.

As a result of this resistance, infections become harder to treat, often leading to more severe health complications, longer recovery times, and increased medical costs. The presence of antibiotic-resistant organisms can also limit the effectiveness of standard treatment protocols, leading to reliance on more potent or alternative therapies that may have more side effects or be less effective. This cycle of antibiotic resistance thus paradoxically increases the risk of prolonged and more complex HAIs, further complicating patient management in healthcare settings.