Surveillance of Microbiological Environment of Operation Theatres

Abstract

Introduction: Microbial contamination in operating theatres is a critical concern. Control of infections in the operation theater (OT) is of utmost importance. Microbiological surveillance is an effective tool for identifying and controlling infections. Effective infection control practices are essential for minimizing microbial exposure and ensuring patient safety during surgical procedures.

Aims & Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence rate of microorganisms in OTs, to identify the type of microorganisms, and to detect contamination of various surfaces and air of OT and to finally provide evidence based recommendations for enhancing infection prevention strategies.

Methods: OTs were properly cleaned with soap and water. All surfaces were disinfected, followed by fumigation with quaternary ammonium compounds. OTs were kept closed overnight. In the morning, they were opened, and samples were collected, taking all aseptic precautions. The settle plate method was used for air sampling, and the swab method was used for surface sampling. Samples were collected from four surfaces of OTs, i.e., floor, wall, table, and light, and samples of the OT air were also collected and immediately transported to the microbiology laboratory of the institution in sterile conditions.

Result:  A total of 2304 swab samples were taken from 12 OTs, out of which 696 (30.2%) were found positive for bacterial growth. Most of them were non-pathological microorganisms such as aerobic spore-forming Bacilli and Micrococcus. Among various OTs, surgery OT showed the highest bacterial growth (84 positive cultures out of 196). In the surface sampling of various OTs, aerobic spore-forming Bacilli (336/696) was the most common isolate, followed by Micrococcus (116/696), and coagulase-negative Staphylococci (96/696). General

surgery, gynae, and obstretics OTs had maximum air bioload (97, 93, and 91 colony-forming unit (CFU)/M3, respectively).

Conclusion: In surface sampling of OTs, it was found that surgery OT and gynaecology OT were most contaminated where the patient load was high. Among all the surfaces, OT walls and tables were most contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms. The average air bioload of all OTs was ranged between 79 and 97 CFU/M3. This study underscores the importance of microbiological surveillance and effective infection control practices in operating theatres. Implementing regular audits and enhancing training programs for healthcare workers can significantly reduce microbial contamination and improve patient outcomes.