Ecology and antibiotic sensitivity of bacteria isolated from surfaces in the neonatology, intensive care and operating theatre units of the Charles de Gaulle University Children's Hospital

Abstract

Introduction

The risk of infection remains a concern in healthcare settings because surfaces are generally colonized by germs. A better understanding of the ecology and antibiotic susceptibility of bacteria isolated from surfaces in wards is necessary to combat these infections.

Methods

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from August to September 2022. A total of 132 samples were collected by swabbing, aspiration, and sedimentation on Petri dishes. The bacteria were identified based on their cultural, morphological, and biochemical characteristics.

Results

The contamination rate was 55.30%. In the units, sinks, walls, and door handles were the most contaminated. Bacteria of human origin (54.2%) were the most frequently encountered. In the intensive care unit, Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most commonly encountered bacteria in sinks. In the neonatology unit, Staphylococcus saprophyticus was found on the floor and in the ambient air, and Klebsiella pneumoniae was found in sinks and incubators. In the operating room, Staphylococcus saprophyticus was identified in the ambient air and on the care equipment. The most common resistance phenotypes were methicillin-resistant, penicillinase-producing of Staphylococcus saprophyticus, inducible MLS and ESBLs.

Discussion

The high contamination rate of equipment and premises may be linked to poor compliance with hygiene measures. Indeed, the most contaminated surfaces were those most frequently touched by staff, patients, and their caregivers.

Keywords : Bacteria, contamination, ESBL, Hospital