Introduction: Antibiotic resistance has been identified by the World Health Organisation as “one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development today”. While penicillin resistance was first noted just 12 years after the discovery of the antibiotic, misuse of these medications in humans and animals has accelerated the process. This acceleration has been compounded by a lack of development of novel antibiotics, requiring the development of other antimicrobial agents. Silver, in both cationic and newer nanoparticle forms, has been used widely due to its unique properties and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Methods: A review of contemporary studies across PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Results: Silver resistance in multiple organisms has been documented over the last 50 years - first to cationic silver, and more recently to silver nanoparticles. More concerning, bacterial exposure to silver may induce antibiotic resistance through co-selection, propagating this issue further. The impact on the health system from antibiotic resistance is already significant, with longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality seen in affected patients. Conclusion: Without strict monitoring of the use of silver-containing compounds in surgical settings, silver resistance may lead rapidly to the next antimicrobial crisis, limiting treatment options and leading to increased morbidity of both patients and the healthcare system.