NON-FERMENTING BACTERIA: PREVALENCE AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE TRENDS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN ANDHRA PRADESH

INTRODUCTION: The increasing prevalence of non-fermenting bacteria in clinical settings poses a significant challenge to healthcare providers due to their intrinsic resistance to multiple antibiotics. These bacteria are often associated with severe infections and increased morbidity and mortality rates. The aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of non- fermenting bacteria and analyze their antimicrobial resistance patterns in a tertiary care hospital in Andhra Pradesh. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2023 to September 2024 at the Department of Microbiology, KIMS, Amalapuram. Clinical samples (e.g., blood, urine, sputum, pus, BAL, blood, fluids) were collected aseptically from patients suspected of having bacterial infections and transported immediately to the microbiology laboratory for analysis. The samples were processed using standard microbiological techniques including Gram’s stain and culture on selective media for bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing using Kirby Bauer Disc Diffusion method as per CLSI guidelines. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using SPSS software version 21.0 RESULTS: Pseudomonas spp (67.3%) were predominantly noted followed by Acinetobacter species (31.5%). Very few Burkholderia spp and Stenotrophomonas maltophila were isolated among clinical specimens accounting for 0.62% and 0.41% respectively. Carbapenem resistant NFGNB (Non-Fermenter Gram Negative Bacilli) infected patients showed prolonged length of stay and increased mortality rate significantly when compared to non MDR (Multi Drug Resistant) NFGNB infected patients. Non fermenters showed a sensitivity of 80% to meropenem, aminoglycosides, minocycline and the susceptibility towards beta lactam and beta lactamase inhibitor combination antibiotics varied among different non-fermenters. CONCLUSION: By understanding the resistance patterns of non-fermenting bacteria, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions regarding antibiotic use, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the spread of resistant strains. A strong focus on Infection control practices and Surveillance and Antimicrobial Stewardship programs by Central and State Health Authorities could largely contribute to controlling outbreaks or hospital acquired infections.