Question

1. Which type of antibiotic (broad spectrum/narrow spectrum) is more effective in an emergency situation where the pathogen is unknown? Why? A. broad spectrum B. narrow spectrum

Answer 1

Answer:

A.

Explanation:

These are group of antibiotics which  effective against the gram+ and gram- bacteria,and against  any bacteria causing diseases and infection. They are groups of old generation type of antibiotics.e.g tetracycline, chrloramphenicol,

They are specifically used;

When there is urgent need to  suppress the  effect of bacteria,  where further delay could be complicating.-emergency.

Against group of bacteria which had developed antibiotic resistance to  administrated antibiotics

To protect the body against bacteria infection, prior to  engaging in activities or exposure to  bacteria infested medium.  

To protect  against infection where the immune response of the individual is very low. e.g Sickle cell Anemia.

Thus Broad Spectrum were not tailored towards a specific bacteria, but against broad range of suspected bacteria.

Narrow spectrum are tailored towards a specific bacteria, thus they can not  be used when there is urgent need to protect against unknown bacteria..

Answer 2

Answer:

A. broad spectrum

Explanation:

An antibiotic is a substance that has the capability to inhibit the growth of or kill bacteria.

A broad spectrum antibiotic has the capability to be inhibit or kill a wide range of bacteria species while a narrow spectrum can only operate within a narrow range of bacteria species.

Hence, in a situation where the the causative organism of the disease (the pathogen) is not known, it is better to use a broad spectrum antibiotic because such antibiotic has a higher chance of eliminating the pathogen.