Methodology

This study was conducted by collecting samples and performing microbiological analyses to evaluate bacterial contamination. The total bacterial load was assessed using Plate Count Agar (PCA), which enables the quantification of viable microorganisms present in each sample. HiCrome MRSA Agar was subsequently used as a selective chromogenic medium to screen for the presence of potential methicillin-resistant organisms. Colonies obtained from selective media were then subcultured onto blood agar to obtain pure isolates and facilitate further identification. Subsequently, Gram staining and microscopic examination were performed to characterise the bacterial isolates and provide preliminary identification based on their morphological and staining characteristics.

In addition, a range of biochemical identification tests and antimicrobial susceptibility tests (AST) can be performed to further characterise the isolates. These laboratory procedures enable the identification of bacteria at the species level and provide detailed information on their antimicrobial resistance profiles. Such analyses allow researchers to distinguish closely related bacterial species, confirm the presence of specific resistant strains, and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the microbial composition and potential clinical significance of the isolates.