Answer to Question 1
Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: A client with inflammation at the infection site might need antibiotics in increased strength, but not as prophylaxis.
Rationale 2: A client with a viral infection should not receive antibiotic therapy.
Rationale 3: A client with a suppressed immune system would need prophylactic antibiotics.
Rationale 4: A client with pus at the infection site might need antibiotics in increased strength, but not as prophylaxis.
Global Rationale: Only in rare cases are anti-infectives given prophylactically for indefinite time periods. Examples include the prevention of infections in patients with suppressed immune systems such as those with HIV infection, or those receiving immunosuppressants following an organ transplant.
Answer to Question 2
Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Superinfections occur when organisms that are normally present in the body are destroyed. This client does not have the symptoms of a superinfection.
Rationale 2: Those who are immunosuppressed and receiving antibiotic therapy are at greater risk of developing superinfections.
Rationale 3: Cellulitis is not a symptom of superinfection.
Rationale 4: Superinfections occur when organisms that are normally present in the body are destroyed. This client does not have the symptoms of a superinfection.
Global Rationale: Antibiotics are unable to distinguish between host flora and pathogenic organisms. When an antibiotic kills the host's normal flora, additional nutrients and space are available for pathogenic microorganisms to grow unchecked. These new, secondary infections caused by antibiotic use are called superinfections, or suprainfections. The appearance of a new infection while receiving anti-infective therapy is highly suspicious of a superinfection. Signs and symptoms of superinfection commonly include diarrhea, bladder pain, painful urination, or abnormal vaginal discharges.