Research regarding the microorganisms from a veterinary clinic

Abstract

The microbial load in veterinary clinics is an essential topic to be addressed, considering the issue of multiple antibiotic resistance of some microbes. A high level of microbial contamination is often associated with a poor-hygiene of spaces, instruments or personnel, and with an increased incidence of nosocomial infections. This research aims to analyse some microorganisms present in human and animal carriers and the traits of specific microflora in the rooms of a private veterinary clinic from Bucharest. The focus was on Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and on Enterobacteriaceae family, by using the enrichment techniques, followed by isolation of the strains on specific solid media, and biochemical-enzymatic identification, then performing the antibiograms. Subsequently, through the quantitative method were established the microorganisms in potential carriers, and also the viable plate count on different surfaces (in samples collected from the door panel and handle, floor and walls, top and bottom surfaces of the consultation rooms’ desks, stethoscopes) and in the air of the rooms (settling plates method and Omeliansky-based formula). The results were compared to the reference values in the legislation (Romanian Health Ministry Order 961/2016). There were detected non-pathogenic Staphylococci, multidrug-resistant Enterococcus strains, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, yeasts and molds. For the air quality, the values (314 to 550 CFU/m3) ranged within the acceptable limits. However, concerning the room surfaces and instruments’ contamination, some critical values were noticed. It is recommended better disinfection and biosecurity protocols and new technical solutions for minimizing the bacterial growth on some critically-used surfaces (Nanoseptic self-cleaning covers/skins).