Laboratory-Nursing Partnerships in Managing Multi-Drug-Resistant Organisms (MDROs): A Comprehensive Review

Background: Multi-drug resistant organisms (MDROs) pose a significant threat to global healthcare, causing prolonged hospitalizations, increased mortality, and substantial economic burdens. Effective management requires robust laboratory-nursing partnerships to enhance detection and infection control.Aim: This review evaluates the efficacy of laboratory-nursing collaborations in managing MDROs, identifies best practices, and highlights opportunities for improvement in diverse healthcare settings.Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, synthesizing studies from 2010–2025 on MDRO epidemiology, diagnostic techniques, infection control practices, and interdisciplinary strategies. Data from the CDC, WHO, and peer-reviewed journals were analyzed to assess the impact of laboratory-nursing synergies.Results: Laboratory professionals utilize advanced diagnostics like PCR and MALDI-TOF MS for rapid MDRO identification, while nurses implement contact precautions and decolonization protocols, reducing transmission by up to 40%. Interdisciplinary communication, standardized protocols, and regional collaboratives, such as SHIELD-OC, have decreased MDRO prevalence by 30.4% in long-term care facilities. Challenges include resource constraints and variable protocol adherence.Conclusions: Laboratory-nursing partnerships are critical for effective MDRO management. Standardizing protocols, leveraging technology, and fostering regional collaboration can enhance outcomes. Future research should explore cost-effective technologies like whole-genome sequencing and AI-based predictive models.