To investigate the constitution and drug resistance status of the major pathogens in mechanically ventilated patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD), so as to provide evidences for clinical treatment.

From patients with AECOPD undergoing mechanical ventilation in EICU or ICU of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from January 2016 to December 2017, various specimens were collected for identification and drug susceptibility testing of pathogens; the clinical data and test results were analyzed.

A total of 104 patients were included in the study. Total of 163 strains of pathogens were isolated from the specimens, of which gram-negative pathogens were the most common, accounting for 74.8% of any pathogens. Drug resistance analysis showed that gram-negative pathogens were severely resistant to third generation cephalosporins, and were more sensitive to Sulperazon and carbapenems; gram-positive cocci were more sensitive to vancomycin and linezolid. Fungi were more sensitive to amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine. Most of the pathogens were multi-resistant.

In selecting antibiotics for the treatment of critical patients with AECOPD, emphasis should be placed on bacterial culture and drug susceptibility testing, so as to reduce irrational drug use and the emergence of drug-resistant strains or superinfection.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Mechanical ventilation; Pathogens; Drug resistance