Evolution of the Level of Antibiotic Resistance of Nosocomial Germs in a Reference Neonatal Unit in Abidjan

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a major public health problem. The aim of the study was to describe the evolution of the level of resistance of germs to antibiotics. Methods: Prospective and analytical study that took place from January to April 2021 on 67 newborns suspected of bacterial infection and with a positive blood culture. Results: The mean gestational age was 35.7 weeks, 69% of patients were born vaginally, and 48% were in a level 3 maternity hospital. Prematurity (34%) and intrapartum asphyxia (24%) were the most common reasons for admission. The main germs found were Staphylococcus aureus (40.2%), Staphylococcus Coagulase Negative (28.3%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (30%), Aeromonas salmonicida (1.5%); 60% of Staphylococcus Coagulase Negative (SCNs) and 45% of S. aureus were resistant to penicillin; 75% of K. pneumoniae produced Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL). Multi Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria were found in newborns who received care to help them adapt to extrauterine life (p = 0.0000) and significantly increased the risk of death (p < 0.001). The mean length of hospital stay was 13.2 days, and the mortality rate was 19.4%. Conclusion: Good hand hygiene and optimal disinfection practices are necessary to limit HAI-related morbidity and mortality.