Bacterial Isolates of Surfaces in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, and Their Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns

Abstract

Introduction: The duration of admission in the hospital, mortality rates, and care costs is increased in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICUs) by nosocomial infections(NIs). There is a need for routine and regular environmental sampling in NICUs.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the NICU of Enugu State University Teaching Hospital. The researchers collected samples for culture from equipment and hospital surfaces in the unit. Susceptibility testing was done for isolates by the agar diffusion method using standard nutrient agar 1 discs.

Results: We observed bacterial growth in 58 (54.7%) samples from the 106 samples collected. Staphylococcus aureus 35 (55.6%) was the most common isolate cultured, followed by Escherichia coli 14 (22.2%) and then coagulase-negative Staphylococcus13 (20.6%).  Among S. aureus isolates, 48.6% were methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Among the Gram-negative isolates, resistance was highest for ampicillin followed by meropenem. Conclusion: The most common isolates were S. aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, and E. coli. Health-care providers need improved hygiene standards to reduce the burden of NI.

Keywords: Bacterial contamination, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Nigeria, susceptibility patterns