PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF SEPSIS IN THE PALESTINIAN PRACTICE: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF SENSITIVITY/RESISTANCE TO ANTIBIOTICS

Abstract

Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, resulting in tissue injury and organ dysfunction, and it is a clinical syndrome with a high mortality rate worldwide. Accurate identification of the causative microorganism is crucial for improving the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy. Aim of the study: The aim of the study is to evaluate the sensitivity and resistance patterns of blood cultures to the most prevalent bacterial pathogens in patients with sepsis, assess clinical outcomes in relation to antimicrobial therapy—including mortality rates, length of hospital stay, and recovery rates—and identify factors that influence blood culture results, as well as determine their impact on the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatment and overall patient outcomes. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzes the management of sepsis in multiple hospitals in the southwest area of the West Bank of Palestine through an analysis of antibiotic resistance and susceptibility of the bacterium found through culture testing. The sample size is comprised of 336 patients who were diagnosed with sepsis between 2022 and 2025, collected during the period from June to December 2025. Results: The results showed that people affected by sepsis were predominantly older (>65 years old), Community-acquired infections were the leading cause of infection in patients (294 patients 87.5%). Urinary tract infections were by far the most common type of infection in patients with sepsis (255 patients 75.9%). The resistance rates for third-generation cephalosporins, amoxicillin/clavulanate, and fluoroquinolones ranged from 40%±60%. The prevalence of multidrug-resistant organisms in this study was 42.0%, with extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing bacteria involved in 34.8% of the cases.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this research shows that there is currently a pressing need to reevaluate empiric prescribing habits based on the present landscape of antibacterial resistance within hospitals throughout Palestine, with significant investment made toward improving microbiology diagnostic capabilities through concrete actions implemented in a timely manner as well as developing and implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs which are specific to the region.