Abstract

ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE DETECTION: THE ROLE OF NURSING IN TRANSLATING LABORATORY FINDINGS TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Abdulrhman Ali Almazam*, Shams Mohammed Alqahtani, Khalid Bataa Albeladi, Ali Khalil Hassan Khader, Meshal Abdullah Alanazi, Ali Jamal Alanazi, Jaber Pbaid Alshammari, Fares Saad N Alotibi, Jaber Obaid Alshammari

ABSTRACT

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global health concern, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. As pathogens evolve mechanisms to resist antimicrobial agents, the gap between laboratory detection and effective clinical application has become a significant barrier in managing infections. Nurses play a pivotal role in translating laboratory findings into actionable clinical interventions, bridging diagnostics with patient-centered care. However, the processes and frameworks supporting this critical role remain underexplored. Aim: This paper aims to investigate the role of nursing in integrating laboratory findings into clinical practice to mitigate the impact of antimicrobial resistance. It seeks to highlight how nurses serve as key agents in interpreting diagnostic data, implementing infection control measures, and educating stakeholders to enhance outcomes in AMR management. Methods: This review synthesizes evidence from peer-reviewed studies, clinical guidelines, and case reports to explore the interface between laboratory diagnostics and nursing practice in AMR management. Analytical frameworks and nursing-led initiatives in infection prevention and control are evaluated, with a focus on collaborative strategies that link microbiological insights to bedside care. Results: Effective collaboration between laboratory diagnostics and nursing interventions significantly improves clinical outcomes in AMR management. Nurses' involvement in interpreting antimicrobial susceptibility data and implementing evidence-based infection control practices reduces infection rates and enhances patient safety. Additionally, nursing-led education programs promote adherence to antimicrobial stewardship policies, fostering responsible antibiotic use among healthcare teams and patients. Case studies illustrate the success of interdisciplinary approaches in optimizing AMR management. Conclusion: Nurses are essential in translating laboratory findings into clinical strategies to combat AMR. Their active participation in diagnostic interpretation, infection control, and education bridges the gap between microbiology and patient care. Strengthening training, policy frameworks, and interdisciplinary collaboration can further enhance nursing contributions to AMR management, reducing its burden on healthcare systems. Future research should focus on developing standardized protocols and innovative tools to support nurses in this critical role.

Keywords: Antimicrobial resistance, Laboratory diagnostics, Nursing interventions, Infection control, Antimicrobial stewardship, Clinical nursing, Microbiology integration.