Question

The nurse monitors the client for adverse effects of medications. What is a major disadvantage of using broad-spectrum anribiotics to treat infections? a. They are only effective against a small number of microorganisms. b. They destroy normal flora, enabling superinfections to develop. c. They ate not effective against viruses. d. They are more likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Short answer

b. They destroy normal flora, enabling superinfections to develop.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Term 'Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics'

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are capable of acting against a wide range of disease-causing bacteria, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative.

Analyze the Possible Disadvantages

Evaluate the consequences of using antibiotics that affect a wide range of bacteria, taking into account the potential impacts on the body's normal flora and how this could lead to other health issues.

Identify the Correct Disadvantage

Choose the option that correctly addresses a major disadvantage of using broad-spectrum antibiotics. While broad-spectrum antibiotics are effective against a wide variety of bacteria, they can also kill beneficial bacteria in the body, which can allow for the emergence of superinfections.

Key concepts

NCLEX-RN examination

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a pivotal step for nursing students to become licensed practitioners. It is essential for nurses to have a deep understanding of medical treatments and their implications, including the pharmacology and the use of antibiotics.

On the NCLEX-RN exam, candidates are tested on their knowledge of pharmacological therapies and the management of client care, which includes the recognition of adverse effects and risks associated with medications such as broad-spectrum antibiotics. This understanding is critical as it guides nurses in providing safe and effective care to patients, and prevents complications related to medication use.

Nursing pharmacology

Nursing pharmacology is a core component of nursing education that focuses on the study and practical applications of medications and their effects on the human body. Nurses must be adept at understanding different classes of drugs, including the role of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are prescribed to treat a variety of bacterial infections but carry the risk of leading to superinfections and antibiotic resistance.

It is imperative for nurses to monitor for adverse effects and to educate patients about the proper use of antibiotics. This includes explaining why it's important to complete the entire course of prescribed medication even if symptoms improve, and discouraging the misuse of antibiotics that can further exacerbate antibiotic resistance.

Superinfections

Superinfections occur when the normal microbial flora of the body is disturbed, often due to the administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which eradicates both harmful and beneficial bacteria. This disruption can pave the way for resistant organisms to proliferate, leading to infections that are more difficult to treat.

Examples of superinfections include thrush or Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. These can create additional health complications, particularly in vulnerable patients. Nurse monitoring for signs of superinfections is an important aspect of patient care, and rapid identification and management of these infections are crucial.

Antibiotic resistance

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health concern and can be exacerbated by the misuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics. This resistance occurs when bacteria mutate and develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them.

Nurses play a vital role in combating antibiotic resistance by implementing infection control practices, educating patients on the correct use of prescribed antibiotics, and advocating for judicious prescribing habits among healthcare providers. Awareness campaigns and continuous patient education about the consequences of antibiotic resistance are critical for public health safety.