Abstract

GUARDIANS AT THE FRONTLINE: EMPOWERING NURSES TO BRIDGE LABORATORY INSIGHTS AND CLINICAL CARE IN THE BATTLE AGAINST ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

Saleh Nashat Alotaibi* and Muteb Saeed Saud Alharbi

ABSTRACT

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a critical global health challenge, driving increased rates of morbidity, mortality, and financial burdens on healthcare systems. As microorganisms develop sophisticated mechanisms to evade antimicrobial agents, a persistent gap emerges between laboratory detection and the effective clinical application of findings, hindering infection management. Nurses occupy a pivotal position in transforming laboratory diagnostics into actionable, patient-centered interventions. However, the structured processes and frameworks guiding this vital role remain inadequately addressed in research and practice. Aim: This study aims to explore and elucidate the role of nurses in integrating laboratory data into clinical practice to counteract the effects of AMR. It emphasizes nurses as central agents in interpreting diagnostic results, implementing infection prevention measures, and educating healthcare teams and patients to enhance AMR management outcomes. Methods: The paper synthesizes evidence from peer-reviewed articles, clinical guidelines, and real-world case studies to examine the intersection of laboratory diagnostics and nursing interventions in AMR management. It evaluates frameworks for nursing-led initiatives in infection control, highlighting collaborative strategies that bridge microbiological findings with bedside care. Results: The integration of laboratory diagnostics with nursing interventions has been shown to markedly improve clinical outcomes in the management of AMR. Nurses’ active roles in analyzing antimicrobial susceptibility data, applying evidence-based infection control measures, and leading educational initiatives promote adherence to antimicrobial stewardship principles. These efforts reduce infection rates, enhance patient safety, and optimize antibiotic use among healthcare professionals and patients. Case studies demonstrate the efficacy of interdisciplinary collaboration in mitigating the impact of AMR. Conclusion: Nurses are indispensable in closing the gap between laboratory diagnostics and clinical care to address AMR. Their involvement in diagnostic interpretation, infection control, and educational initiatives is critical to bridging microbiological insights with patient outcomes. Strengthening nurse-specific training, refining policy frameworks, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration can significantly enhance their contributions to AMR management. Future research should prioritize the development of standardized protocols and innovative tools to support nursing roles in this domain, ultimately reducing the healthcare burden of AMR.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, laboratory diagnostics, nursing interventions, infection control, antimicrobial stewardship, clinical nursing, microbiology integration.