Aim: This study aimed to isolate and identify common bacteria from 19 preterm neonates who spent their first weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit. Materials & methods: Stool samples were collected, and bacteria were isolated and purified from the samples. The isolated bacterial species were tested for antibiotic susceptibility or resistance. Results: Three common species were found in 15 stool samples: Enterobacter cloacae, Enterococcus fecalis and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Minimum inhibitory concentrations determined using antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that the minimum level of isolates was affected by the most commonly used antibiotics, with significant resistance to some of the tested antibiotics. Conclusion: The development of beneficial normal flora in preterm neonates plays a vital role in their health and well-being.
Keywords: intestinal microflora; microbiota; minimum inhibitory concentration; neonatal intensive care.