Ventilator-associated respiratory infections (VARI) represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), especially in resource-limited rural healthcare settings. This case-based study investigates the antimicrobial resistance pattern of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from a ventilated neonate diagnosed with respiratory infection. A tracheal swab sample was processed using standard microbiological techniques, including Gram staining, culture, and antibiotic susceptibility testing following CLSI guidelines.

The isolate demonstrated extensive drug resistance, including resistance to beta-lactams, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and carbapenems. Phenotypic analysis suggested probable extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production and possible carbapenemase activity. These findings indicate a multidrug-resistant (MDR) profile, posing significant therapeutic challenges.