Mechanisms developed by microorganisms to resist or be unsusceptible to inhibitors (e. g. in disinfectants), environmental influences (e. g. heat) or physical processes (e. g. radiation). In healthcare, gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria which have developed resistance to several classes of antibiotics at the same time are particularly problematic – and are referred to as multidrug-resistant.
A resistance to disinfectants depends on the mode of action. It is recommended that only tested or listed disinfectants are used, whereby the prescribed concentration and exposure time must be observed to avoid underdosing.