In What Clinical Situation Is It Most Appropriate to Use

question 15

Multiple Choice

In what clinical situation is it most appropriate to use a broad-spectrum antimicrobial?

• A) In an example of a viral pediatric otitis media (middle ear) infection. We can't properly test for the specific drug that would best eliminate the infection due to its location, so we use a broad-spectrum drug instead.
• B) In a case of viral meningitis. The infection spreads so quickly that we must treat it with an antibacterial drug as quickly as possible. We don't have time to determine which drug will work best, because the patient will die in the meantime.
• C) In a case of bacterial meningitis. The infection spreads so quickly that we must treat it with an antibacterial drug as quickly as possible. We don't have time to determine which drug will work best, because the patient will die in the meantime.
• D) In a case of Staphylococcus aureus skin infection. Since this microbe can be resistant to several types of drugs, we want to use one that has the broadest spectrum possible to treat this microbe-specific infection.
• E) There are no appropriate situations for using broad-spectrum antibiotics, because they almost always lead to resistance. It is much better to use a narrow-spectrum medication.

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Definitions:

Clinical Competence

The blend of skills, knowledge, and behavior that enables a healthcare provider to deliver effective patient care.

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Specific abilities and knowledge used to perform practical tasks in various fields such as IT, engineering, or science.

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A healthcare delivery system aimed at managing the quality and cost of medical services through contracted arrangements with providers.

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A type of health insurance plan that offers members lower rates when they use providers in the plan’s network.