Consequences of antimicrobial resistance among children with Hospital-Acquired Infections (HIAs): Analysis of the SPIDAAR dataset.

This research project will be based on the Surveillance Partnership to Improve Data for Action on Antimicrobial Resistance (SPIDAAR), which was implemented across Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, and Uganda. This dataset was preferred given the research team's familiarity with the study context, which suffers a high burden of antimicrobial resistance and HAIs among children. The research team is also academically well-versed with statistical assessment and policy implications of the outcomes of interest in this study.
This research project will examine temporal patterns in antimicrobial resistance among children, using monthly aggregated data derived from the study period. By incorporating a time component, the study will explore variations in antimicrobial resistance in relation to seasonal patterns (e.g. rainy versus dry seasons), to determine whether antimicrobial resistance exhibits seasonal variation. In addition, a comparative analysis will be conducted to evaluate differences in antimicrobial resistance between 2021 and 2023 data collection points. Additionally, this study will also examine the relationship between antimicrobial resistance and patient outcomes by examining the survival function among hospitalized children with nosocomial infections, with particular focus on differences between resistant and non-resistant infections.
This study will help improve patient outcomes by identifying high-risk groups and informing more effective treatment strategies. The findings will strengthen antimicrobial stewardship by highlighting temporal and seasonal patterns of resistance that can guide appropriate antibiotic use and reduce ineffective treatments among children. The study will also inform public health practice by providing evidence on both monthly and seasonal variations in resistance across multiple settings, thereby supporting targeted surveillance and intervention strategies. Finally, by generating multicountry evidence from diverse hospital settings, the research will contribute to strengthening health systems through improved data-driven decision-making, more efficient resource allocation, and enhanced capacity for monitoring and responding to antimicrobial resistance trends.