MDRO: Guidelines for laboratory detection

The fight against healthcare-associated infections hinges on the rapid and reliable detection of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). In this context, the SHC is publishing new guidelines for laboratory testing based on clinical and screening samples. The aim is to standardise methods for detecting and confirming MDROs, particularly ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa et other Enterobacterales).

Intended for medical microbiologists, laboratory staff, infection prevention specialists and infectious disease experts, the guidelines cover active surveillance, test validation, reporting and notification procedures and interdisciplinary collaboration. They highlight the most up-to-date phenotypic and molecular methods, with tailored algorithms to support targeted detection. This report complements advisory no. 9277 (2019) on the prevention, control and management of MDROs in Belgian healthcare settings.