Space Race, Siri and the Central Dogma: A Contemporary Nursing Analysis of Antibiotics Resistance

Abstract

In the age of information, antibiotic resistance is still a black-box problem in clinical practice; pathogens are often defined in terms of which pharmaceuticals are no longer effective, and treatment protocols are prescribed prophylactically; often at strengths that are in excess of what is known about the pathogen’s susceptibilities or even its identity. All antibiotic resistance mechanisms involve the expression of proteins that provide resistance capabilities. These modified proteins should be detectable by analyzing DNA (or RNA intermediates) that code for them in order to determine a pathogen’s threat profile. Next-Generation and nanopore DNA sequencing technologies are capable of delivering prompt identity and virulence capabilities for bacterial pathogens, thereby delivering precise information for prescribing appropriate antibiotic solutions. Nursing is well positioned to deliver evidence-based care to patients by advocating for rapid empirical diagnoses where possible.