The lived experience of patients with conflict associated injuries whose wounds are affected by antimicrobial resistant organisms: a qualitative study from northwest Syria

For those with severe conflict-associated wounds which are affected by antimicrobial resistant (AMR) organisms, health systems during protracted conflict are often ill-equipped to respond to their needs. In this study, our aim is to explore the experiences of those with conflict-associated wounds whose wounds have been infected with AMR bacteria and who reside in northwest Syria (NWS). This is with a view to understanding the challenges they face and how the health and humanitarian system can better respond to their needs.

This is the first exploration through qualitative research of the experiences of those with conflict-affected wounds which are infected with AMR organisms in NWS. Emerging themes as told by participants can help stakeholders, including policy makers, humanitarian organisations and those involved with health system planning in NWS consider gaps in current and future care needs (including livelihood opportunities) for this vulnerable group.