TITLE ANTIBIOTICS SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERN OF EXTENDED SPECTRUM BETA-LACTAMASE (ESBL) PRODUCING BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM HOSPITAL ENVIRONMENT

Abstract This study aimed to isolate, identify, and determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of ESBL-producing bacteria from high-contact surfaces within Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU) Medical Center, Osun State, Nigeria. A total of twenty (20) environmental samples were collected from door handles, doctors’ tables, bedside areas, and waste bins (five per surface). Standard microbiological techniques including culture on selective media, Gram staining, and biochemical characterization were employed for bacterial identification. Phenotypic detection of ESBL was carried out using the Double Disc Synergy Test (DDST), and antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method following CLSI guidelines. Out of the 20 samples, 17 (85%) showed bacterial growth, yielding 22 isolates. Predominant organisms included Escherichia coli (27.3%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (22.7%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.2%). Eight (36.4%) of the isolates were confirmed as ESBL producers, with the highest prevalence found on door handles and bedside areas. The widespread presence of ESBL-producing bacteria on inanimate surfaces calls for stringent infection control measures, routine environmental surveillance, and rational antibiotic use. This study underscores the need for improved disinfection protocols and antimicrobial stewardship to curb the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance inhealthcare facilities.