Overview of Pathogens causing Nosocomial Infections in Various Wards of a Tertiary Health Care Hospital and their Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern - A Prospective Surveillance Study

Abstract

The major problem encountered in recent days due to the advent of emerging antimicrobial resistance strains is Hospital Acquired Infections (HAIs). The spread of HAI is mainly through the hospital staff and the hospital settings’ inanimate surfaces. The study includes the surveillance of hospital surfaces, including wards and ICUs, by taking swabs dipped in normal saline. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (53.8%) was found to be the most common pathogen isolated, followed by Klebsiella species (18%), Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (16%), Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci (6%), Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (3%). The widespread presence of bacterial sensitivity to antimicrobials and the modifications insensitivity forms the basis for designing antibacterial therapy’s practical recommendations and rational use of antimicrobials. Proper display of all Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials at appropriate places play a significant role in preventing nosocomial infections. Audiovisual aids and training to the staff play utmost importance in preventing the spread of HAIs. All these can reduce the occurrence and outbreak of nosocomial conditions. Overall, these minimize health care costs.