Evaluación de la carga bacteriana presente en catéteres venosos empleados en pacientes caninos (Canis lupus familiaris)

Abstract

The use of venous catheters in hospitalized canines can cause infections due to bacterial contamination, influenced by the catheter gauge and asepsis. This study evaluates the bacterial load in venous catheters, analyzing how the caliber and aseptic practices affect the risk of infections in canine patients. Bacterial colonization in peripheral venous catheters (PVC) in hospitalized canines was evaluated, analyzing the relationship between the duration of use, the catheter gauge, and bacterial sensitivity to antibiotics. 60 catheter tip samples were analyzed, finding 58% of the samples positive for bacterial contamination. The most frequent bacteria were Escherichia coli (49%), coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (29%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (14%), Enterococcus faecalis (8%), and Staphylococcus aureus (6%). No significant differences were observed between the exposure time (48 to 72 hours) and the presence of bacteria, but the 22-gauge presented higher contamination. The antibiogram indicated that the antibiotics Ciprofloxacin and Levofloxacin were highly effective against Escherichia coli, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus aureus, while for Erythromycin, the isolated bacteria coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis showed a 66.7% resistance, demonstrating lower efficacy against these bacteria. The choice of catheter gauge is crucial, as an inadequate gauge increases the risk of contamination. Additionally, the lack of strict asepsis during its placement and handling is one of the main causes of infections. The use of antibiograms allows for effective and targeted treatment in hospitalized canine patients.