Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates among Clinical Samples showing Growth in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

INTRODUCTION: Carbapenems resistance due to metallo-beta-lactamase production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major concern which is increasing globally resulting in limited therapeutic choices. This study aimed to find out the prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates among clinical samples showing growth of a tertiary care centre. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on various clinical samples which showed growth in the Department of Microbiology of a tertiary care centre between 1 September 2020 to 28 February 2021 after receiving ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 03-G/020). Convenience sampling was done. All timely received clinical specimens were inoculated and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours and identified by standard microbiological techniques. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated. RESULTS: Among 1049 clinical samples showing growth, 68 (6.48%) (4.99-7.97, 95% Confidence Interval) Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated. Among them, 6 (8.82%) were found to be metallo-beta-lactamase positive. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was similar to the studies done in similar settings. As metallo-beta-lactamase production was detected among isolated species which can be spread very rapidly and may develop a problematic scenario in treatment procedures, regular surveillance along with judicious use of carbapenems should precede.