Bacterial Diversity and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Microorganisms Isolated from Hospital Fomites: Implications for Infection Control and Antibiotic Stewardship.

Hospital fomites are potential reservoirs for pathogenic microorganisms and play a significant role in the transmission of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This study investigated the bacterial diversity and antibiotic resistance patterns of microorganisms isolated from various hospital fomites. Ten different hospital surfaces, including beds, desks, benches, and diagnostic equipment, were sampled and analyzed for microbial contamination. Surface swab samples were collected aseptically and cultured using standard microbiological techniques, followed by biochemical identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing using disc diffusion technique. A wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were isolated, with the highest microbial diversity observed on patient beds and benches. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed high resistance levels, especially to Ofloxacin (92.5%) and Ceftriaxone (87.5%), while Gentamicin showed the highest susceptibility rate (47.5%). The findings highlight the critical role of fomites in nosocomial pathogen persistence and the pressing need for improved disinfection protocols and antibiotic stewardship.