MICROBIAL PROFILING AND ANTIBIOGRAM OF CAESAREAN SECTION SURGICAL SITE INFECTIONS AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE.

Background & Methods: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are the second most common healthcare associated infections (HAI) reported after Catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), putting significant burden on healthcare system, also contributes to increased morbidity and negative impact on the psychological, social and economic aspect of patients' life. The aim of the study is to study surgical site infection after caesarean section-Bacteriological profile and Antibiogram. Samples were collected under strict aseptic precautions using sterile cotton swabs from patients and were processed as per standard microbiological techniques. Results: Out of 150 patients who underwent caesarean section, 17 were found to have SSIs. Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-06(35.3%) was most common bacterial species isolated followed by Enterococcus spp.- 04(23.5%), Klebsiella pneumoniae-03 (17.6%), Escherichia coli-02 (11.8%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa-02 (11.8%). Antimicrobial profile of Gram positive isolates revealed maximum sensitivity to linezolid, whereas among Gram negative isolates meropenem, amikacin, gentamicin were found to be most sensitive for Enterobacterales. Conclusion: To conclude, there is predominance of Gram positive organisms and emergence of MDR Gram negative organisms. By adhering to strict infection control practices, meticulous operative technique, timely administration of appropriate preoperative antibiotics, optimal preoperative, intra-operative and postoperative patient care will aid in reducing the incidence of SSIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]