Bacterial Contamination and Antimicrobial Resistance on Substantial-Touch Hospital Surfaces: A Cross-Sectional Study in Misrata, Libya

Abstract

Hospital surfaces are important reservoirs for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in high-contact clinical environments. This study aimed to evaluate bacterial contamination, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and associated contamination risks in selected hospitals in Misrata, Libya. A cross-sectional study was conducted using 70 environmental surface samples collected from high-touch and low-touch areas. Standard microbiological methods and antimicrobial susceptibility testing based on CLSI guidelines were applied. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, odds ratios, and logistic regression. The overall contamination rate was 77.1%, with the highest contamination observed on door handles, bed rails, and computer keyboards. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant isolate (33.3%). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was detected in 41.5% of isolates, particularly among Gram-negative bacteria. Logistic regression indicated elevated contamination risk on high-touch surfaces. The findings highlight the critical role of hospital surfaces in pathogen transmission and AMR dissemination within healthcare settings.