Antimicrobial resistance patterns and molecular characterization of Acinetobacter baumannii isolates in non-COVID-19 patients admitted to intensive care units during the pandemic: a retrospective study at a tertiary hospital in Tehran, Iran

The present study demonstrates the predominance of XDR A. baumannii strains carrying diverse ARGs in our ICU setting. These findings raise concern, as such strains complicate treatment, limit therapeutic options, and may contribute to poor outcomes in critically ill patients. Mortality was high and appeared more associated with extensive resistance than with comorbidities. The clonal dissemination of these strains further emphasizes the need for robust infection control measures. Implementation of strict infection control measures and robust antibiotic stewardship programs remains essential to limit the spread of these highly resistant pathogens.