Molecular Diagnostics, Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns, and Clinical Outcomes in Hospitalized Pneumonia Patients: A Prospective Study from Jordan and a Call for National Guideline Integration

This study of hospitalized pneumonia patients in Jordan shows that molecular diagnostics (PCR) significantly improve pathogen detection compared to traditional cultures, revealing frequent and complex co-infections (including bacterial–viral combinations). Pneumonia outcomes remain severe, with a high mortality rate (27%), and inappropriate (non-guideline) antibiotic use is linked to worse outcomes. The findings also highlight concerning antimicrobial resistance patterns, including high resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Overall, the study underscores the need to integrate molecular testing into clinical practice and national guidelines to enable more targeted treatment and strengthen antimicrobial stewardship in the face of evolving AMR.