Prevalence, Antibiotic Susceptibility, and Plasmid Profile of Bacteria Isolated from Door Handles of Washrooms of a Jk Hospital in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Objectives: Door handles are frequently touched surfaces that may harbor pathogenic bacteria capable of transmitting infectious diseases. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, and plasmid profiles of bacteria isolated from door handles of washrooms from a hospital in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Methods Sixteen (16) door-handle swab samples were collected from washrooms located in four hospital wards. Samples were cultured on nutrient agar, MacConkey agar, blood agar, and selective media. Isolates were identified through colony morphology, Gram staining, and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Plasmid extraction was conducted using a modified hot alkaline method, and bands were analyzed on agarose gel electrophoresis. Results All 16 (100%) samples showed bacterial contamination. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas spp., Klebsiella spp., and Proteus spp. were isolated. Antibiotic resistance was highest against amoxicillin (65.12%) and SXT (74.42%). Lower resistance was observed for gentamycin (2.33%), chloramphenicol (4.65%), streptomycin (6.98%), ciprofloxacin (23.26%), tetracycline (18.60%), and rifampicin (55.81%). Several isolates carried one or more plasmids with varying molecular weights, suggesting plasmid-mediated resistance. Conclusions The high prevalence of pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria on washroom door handles indicates inadequate hygiene practices and a potential risk of nosocomial disease transmission. Regular disinfection, proper hand hygiene, and antimicrobial stewardship are essential to reduce contamination risks.