Dutch guideline for the prevention and control of multidrug-resistant organisms in the hospital setting, 2024 update

Abstract

The emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) represents a significant challenge for global healthcare systems. The Netherlands maintains one of the lowest antimicrobial resistance rates in the world, attributed to prudent antibiotic use and effective infection prevention and control policies in healthcare settings. This report presents an updated national guideline for the infection prevention and control of MDROs in hospitals, developed by the Dutch Collaborative Partnership for Infection Prevention Guidelines (SRI). Using a multidisciplinary approach and evidence-based frameworks such as AGREE-II and GRADE, the guideline addresses the definition of MDRO, risk assessment and recommendations for MDRO screening, isolation and infection prevention measures, source and contact tracing, discontinuation of isolation measures, and organization of care. It incorporates new evidence, and other aspects such as patient perspectives, sustainability, costs, and organizational factors, providing practical recommendations to mitigate MDRO transmission. This update aims to strengthen national infection control practices and sustain the Dutch low antimicrobial resistance levels.