ASSESSING THE BURDEN OF MULTIDRUG RESISTANT ENTERIC BACTERIA ON DOOR HANDLES AT CENTRAL HOSPITAL, AGBOR

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global public health threat that exacerbates healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Hospital environments, particularly high-touch surfaces like door handles, serve as critical reservoirs for various groups of bacteria, facilitating cross-transmission. This study assessed the burden of MDR enteric bacteria on hospital door handles at Central Hospital, Agbor, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, sampling 20 door handles from five units of the hospital (Entrance, Intensive Care Unit, Toilet facilities, Surgical Ward, and Children’s Ward). Isolates were identified using standard morphological and biochemical techniques, and their antibiotic susceptibility profiles were determined. The predominant bacteria isolated included Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., and Proteus spp. The highest levels of bacterial contamination were recorded on toilet and entrance door handles, with lower counts in surgical and intensive care units. All isolates were Gram-negative rods, catalase-positive, and oxidase-negative. A concerning prevalence of MDR was observed: E. coli , Klebsiella, and Proteus spp. showed 100% multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR); Enterobacter spp. exhibited 75%, and E. coli , 60%. Overall, 73.33% of resistant strains were MDR, with resistance frequently observed against commonly used antibiotics such as amoxicillin, augmentin, and cotrimoxazole. These findings emphasize the role of hospital door handles as significant environmental reservoirs for MDR pathogens, contributing to HAIs. The study highlights the urgent need for reinforced hygiene practices, prudent antibiotic use, routine resistance surveillance, and susceptibility testing to curtail the spread of AMR in healthcare settings in Nigeria.