Isolation and identification of gram-negative bacilli from clinical samples isolated from intensive care unit of a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) caused by gram-negative bacteria continue to be a major concern in healthcare facilities worldwide. These infections pose significant challenges due to their ability to acquire antibiotic resistance, resulting in higher morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This study conducted in an intensive care unit (ICU) investigated the frequency and distribution of gram-negative bacteria in various clinical specimens. Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli were identified as the predominant pathogens causing infections, with urine specimens showing the highest bacterial growth. While male patients exhibited a slightly higher susceptibility to gram-negative bacilli infections, age did not significantly influence infection rates. The findings highlight the need for effective infection control measures, judicious antibiotic prescribing practices, and improved surveillance to combat the rising prevalence of multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria in healthcare settings.