Author Question: Which cephalosporin may be used to treat meningitis? a. Cefaclor b. Cefazolin c. Cefoxitin d. ... (Read 53 times)

shofmannx20 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Which cephalosporin may be used to treat meningitis?

a. Cefaclor
b. Cefazolin
c. Cefoxitin
d. Cefotaxime

Question 2

A nurse is teaching a nursing student what is meant by generations of cephalosporins. Which statement by the student indicates understanding of the teaching?

a. Cephalosporins are assigned to generations based on their relative costs to administer.
b. Cephalosporins have increased activity against gram-negative bacteria with each generation.
c. First-generation cephalosporins have better penetration of the cerebrospinal fluid.
d. Later generations of cephalosporins have lower resistance to destruction by beta-lactamases.

SVictor · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Cefotaxime has increased ability to reach the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and to treat meningitis. Cefaclor, cefazolin, and cefoxitin do not reach effective concentrations in the CSF.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
With each progression from first-generation agents to fourth-generation agents, the cephalosporins show increased activity against gram-negative organisms, increased resistance to destruction by beta-lactamases, and increased ability to reach the CSF. Cost is not a definitive factor. First-generation drugs have less penetration of the CSF. Resistance to destruction by beta-lactamases increases with increasing generations.