ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF LEMON JUICES ON NOSOCOMIAL PATHOGENS

Nosocomial infections, or healthcare-associated infections (HAls), are infections acquired during hospital stays that were neither present nor incubating at the time of admission. These infections typically emerge after 48 hours of hospitalization or within 30 days post-discharge and are independent of the original reason for hospital admission. Factors contributing to HAls include immunocompromised patients, invasive procedures, inadequate sanitation, and antimicrobial misuse leading to multidrug-resistant pathogens such as Candida auris, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Acinetobacter baumannii.Common types of HAls include central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), surgical site infections, and ventilator-associated pneumonia. Pathogens responsible span bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli), viruses (e.g., hepatitis, influenza), and fungi (e.g., Candida albicans).Transmission routes include contact, droplet, and airborne spread. Globally, HAls affect 5-15% of patients in developed and up to 25% in developing nations, with intensive care units being high-risk zone. This study involved collecting samples from hospital environments, culturing, identifying bacteria, and testing antibiotic sensitivity. Organisms isolated include Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Brucella spp., and Streptococcus thermophilus. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed varying resistance patterns, emphasizing the urgency of antimicrobial stewardship. Preventive measures include strict hand hygiene, sterilization, disinfection, PPE use, and adherence to injection and ventilation safety protocols. The findings highlight the persistent challenge of HAls and the need for robust infection control programs, surveillance, and responsible antibiotic use to reduce morbidity, mortality, and economic burden.