PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA IN A HOSPITAL FROM THE MICROREGION OF OURO PRETO, MINAS GERAIS, BRAZIL

Abstract

Water is the main source of transmission of micro-organisms in health centers, which can cause infections that are a serious issue for public health. The goal of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of water used in
a hospital of the microregion of Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Twelve water samples were collected at different points for the detection of total and fecal coliforms, as well as other micro-organisms; in addition, antimicrobial susceptibility tests were also performed. The bacterial species Pseudomonas aeruginosa was detected in the sample from the rinse water of clean clothes collected in the laundry’s clean area and it was identified by Gram stain and automated analysis using VITEK® equipment. The strain of P. aeruginosa showed sensitivity to the antibiotics commonly used to treat infections induced by this bacterium, such as cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, carbapenems and polymyxins. However, the results indicate the need for a greater attention to the process of cleaning of hospital clothing, a fact that is still neglected in Brazil.