Publication:

Evaluating the influence of antibiotic resistance on the effectiveness of treatment of pediatric sepsis

Background Pediatric sepsis remains a critical contributor to morbidity and mortality globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The increasing burden of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses significant challenges to its effective treatment. This study evaluated the influence of antibiotic resistance on the management outcomes of pediatric sepsis Telangana, Indian. Aim was to assess healthcare professionals’ perspectives on the impact of antibiotic resistance on the treatment of pediatric sepsis, focusing on prescribing practices, diagnostic patterns, and clinical outcomes.

Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 302 healthcare professionals in Telangana. The structured survey included five domains: demographics, awareness of AMR, antibiotic prescribing behavior, treatment outcomes, and stewardship recommendations. Data were collected through online and paper-based formats and analyzed using SPSS 26.0, employing descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, t-tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression models.

Results Among respondents, 91.4% encountered resistant sepsis cases, and 81.5% perceived AMR as a major treatment barrier. Only 34.7% routinely used blood cultures before initiating antibiotics. Most relied on empirical therapy (88.2%), with third-generation cephalosporins being the first line (64.6%), and 66.9% escalated to carbapenems. Prolonged hospital stays (72.8%), and increased treatment failure (58.9%) was significantly associated with resistant infections. Rural settings and lack of rapid diagnostics were major contributors to treatment inefficacy.

Conclusions Antibiotic resistance significantly hampers pediatric sepsis management in Telangana. There is a critical need for enhanced diagnostic capacity, rational antibiotic use, and robust antimicrobial stewardship. Policy efforts must address healthcare inequities to curb the growing threat of AMR and improve pediatric outcomes.