nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Antibiotics are prescribed only when a viral infection is present: Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections; they are prescribed for bacterial infections like MRSA. Using antibiotics during viral infections contributes to resistance and is inappropriate. B. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are used whenever possible: While broad-spectrum antibiotics target multiple bacteria, their overuse can promote resistance. Treatment of MRSA usually requires specific, targeted antibiotics rather than indiscriminate broad-spectrum use. C. Infections become resistant to high doses of antibiotics: Bacteria, including MRSA, develop resistance when antibiotics are misused or taken incorrectly. Resistance is not caused by high doses per se but by inappropriate or incomplete antibiotic use, allowing bacteria to survive and adapt. D. Antibiotic dosages below the minimum concentration are prescribed: Doses below the therapeutic level can promote resistance by failing to eliminate bacteria completely. Effective treatment requires appropriate dosages to eradicate the infection and prevent resistance.