Análisis microbiológico en el área de consulta externa y emergencia en el Centro de Salud “Mariano Estrella” de la ciudad de Cuenca-Provincia del Azuay

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a global health threat since they represent one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. These infections can arise from the presence of pathogenic microorganisms on surfaces or inert objects. Objective: To analyze the microbiological status of inert surfaces in the Outpatient and Emergency area of the “Mariano Estrella” health center in the city of Cuenca, Azuay. Methodology: 250 samples were taken by the swabbing method, according to ISO 14698-1; they were transported and processed in the Microbiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Chemical Sciences of the University of Cuenca. Results: Growth was evidenced in 90% of the samples, obtaining a microbial load of 2.52 CFU/cm2 and 419 CFU/surface in regular and irregular surfaces, respectively. A total of 372 bacterial strains were identified, with coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (37%) being the most frequent, followed by Bacillus spp (24%), Enterobacter cloacae (13%), and Staphylococcus aureus (6%). Of the inert surfaces analyzed, it was determined that the most susceptible to microbial contamination were computer keyboards and mice. On the other hand, the microorganisms considered as pathogens were tested for susceptibility to antibiotics, ruling out acquired resistance for all the strains analyzed. Conclusion: The results of this study allowed inferring that the cleaning and disinfection processes carried out in the “Mariano Estrella” health center are not adequate, and that there is a high risk of HAIs.