Nosocomial infections in neonatal intensive care units: profile, risk factor assessment and antibiogram.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the profile and risk factors of neonatal nosocomial infections and determine the antibiotic susceptibilities of these isolates.

METHODS

Cohort study was conducted at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, from July 2005 to September 2006. Neonates admitted for more than forty-eight hours in the NICU, who developed infections/sepsis as evidenced by the clinical findings were included in the study. Chi-square test, Proportion tests were used, P value of <0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella species and Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) were the predominant nosocomial pathogens. Significant risk factors included prematurity, low birth weight and increased duration of hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

A revised infection control program with emphasis on handwashing techniques and antibiotic cycling helped to control these hospital infections.