FeedbackThis highly drug-resistant pathogen has a 40% mortality rate. Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is resistant to almost all available antimicrobial agents. It is currently found primarily in the Northeastern United States but has been found sporadically in 24 states. CDC is very concerned and is recommending an aggressive approach.
All hospitalized patients colonized or infected with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae should be placed on contact precautions. There is currently no recommendation when to discontinue contact precautions.
Antibiotic resistance appears to be occurring through a mechanism that can be transferred to other bacteria. Experts fear a possibly fully resistant E. coli 0157 strain as a worst case scenario.
Patients with prolonged hospitalization and invasive devices are at greatest risk. Reported infections include urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections and ventilator-associated pneumonia. Fatalities are due to severity of illness and limited antimicrobial options.
