ABSTRACT
Objectives: To determine the distribution and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of nosocomial pathogens in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI).
Methods: A retrospective review of the laboratory records of all ICU patients from 2002–2004 was
done. All organisms isolated from blood, urine, sputum, wound swabs and CVP tips were recorded. Sensitivity reports for organisms isolated in 2004 were also obtained. Results were analysed according to source of isolates and type of infection.
Results: Gram-negative organisms account for the majority of ICU isolates and show resistance to multiple antibiotics. The common Gram negative pathogens in the ICU are Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter spp and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia while the common Gram positive nosocomial organisms are Group D Streptococcus and coagulase negative Staphylococcus.
Conclusion: The organisms isolated in the ICU at the UHWI are similar to those isolated in many ICUs all over the world. Surveillance data are necessary to monitor nosocomial pathogens and
their resistance patterns to guide empirical antibiotic therapy.
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