Antimicrobial Resistance Relating to Wound Management and Infection

Antimicrobial resistance is now a global threat. Its emergence rests on antimicrobial overuse in humans and food-producing animals; globalisation and suboptimal infection control facilitate its spread. While aggressive measures in some countries have led to the containment of some resistant Gram-positive organisms, extensively resistant Gram-negative organisms are pan-resistant. The achievements of modern medicine are put at risk by antimicrobial resistance. Without effective antimicrobials for prevention and treatment of infections, the success of organ transplantation, cancer chemotherapy and major surgery would be compromised. Inappropriate use of antimicrobials drives the development of drug resistance. Both overuse, underuse and misuse of medicines contribute to the problem. The Australian government has launch Australia's First National Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy; however, without urgent, coordinated action, the world is heading towards a post-antibiotic era, in which common infections and minor injuries, which have been treatable for decades, can once again kill.