What serious complication should a nurse monitor for in a patient with an Acinetobacter infection?

In the context of an Acinetobacter infection, monitoring for increased resistance to antibiotics is crucial due to the nature of this pathogen. Acinetobacter species, particularly Acinetobacter baumannii, are known for their ability to develop multidrug resistance, complicating the treatment options available to healthcare providers.

When an infection is caused by a resistant organism, standard treatments may fail, leading to prolonged illness and difficulties in achieving an effective response to therapy. This increased resistance is not just a theoretical concern; it directly impacts clinical outcomes and can lead to further complications, requiring more intensive care or a change in treatment regimens.

While hypotension and multisystem organ failure are certainly potential complications of severe infections, and increased hospitalization costs are important considerations, the cornerstone issue with Acinetobacter infections is the organism's propensity to resist treatment, which can directly affect patient management and recovery. Therefore, vigilance regarding resistance patterns is essential for quality patient care and to mitigate the risks of inadequate treatment outcomes.