Abstract
Objectives: This study was performed to determine the prevalence of uropathogens causing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and to determine their pattern of antimicrobial resistance.
Methods: This study was conducted on 273 urine samples collected from outpatient departments (OPDs) of Qassim University affiliated hospitals. Fully automated VITEK 2 compact system was used in the identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of causative microorganisms.
Results: Of 273 urine samples, only 89 (32.6%) were found to show significant growth for UTI, and overall, drug resistance was found in 92% (n = 82/89) of samples, with most (80%) being resistant to at least two drugs. Antibiotic resistance was commonly observed in ampicillin (88.3%). piperacillin (72.7%), clindamycin (66.7%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (66.2%), and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (50%). The commonly isolated microorganisms were Escherichia coli 24 (27%). Klebsiella pneumoniae 11 (12.4%), Proteus mirabilis 4 (4.5%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa 4 (4.5%). Enterobacter cloacae 5 (5.6%), Enterococcus faecalis 5 (5.6%), and Staphylococcus saprophyticus 3 (3.4%).
Conclusions: This research work has shown that patients with UTI in Qassim are at high risk of antibiotic resistance. The work also showed that multidrug-resistant bacteria can lead to momentous therapeutic problems in OPD patients.