Patients confirmed to be infected with a multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacterium

If infection with a carbapenem-resistant bacterium is confirmed or suggested by preliminary susceptibility testing results, seek advice from an infectious diseases physician or clinical microbiologist for antibiotic choice. Also refer to local or jurisdictional protocols, if available. For guidance on relevant information that can support antibiotic choice and should be obtained before seeking expert advice, see Factors that influence the likely susceptibility of multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria.

Patients who are severely unwell should be urgently referred to an infectious diseases physician or clinical microbiologist for antibiotic choice.

If infection with an extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL)- or carbapenemase-producing bacterium is confirmed or suggested by preliminary susceptibility testing results:

• for patients well enough to be treated in primary care – treatment choice is determined by the results of susceptibility testing
• for patients who require treatment in hospital – seek advice from an infectious diseases physician or clinical microbiologist for antibiotic choice. Also refer to local or jurisdictional protocols, if available.