PSA Antimicrobial Prescribing 2

Question 1

A patient with confirmed MRSA bacteremia requires IV antibiotic therapy. Which agent is the first-line choice?

Accepted Answer

Vancomycin

Answer

Vancomycin is the first-line agent for MRSA bacteremia due to its reliable activity against methicillin-resistant strains.

Question 2

A patient with a severe penicillin allergy (anaphylaxis) develops a skin and soft tissue infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Which antibiotic is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Vancomycin

Answer

Vancomycin is the safest option in true penicillin anaphylaxis, as cross-reactivity with beta-lactams remains a concern despite being low with cephalosporins.

Question 3

A healthy 35-year-old presents with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) requiring outpatient treatment with no comorbidities. What is the preferred first-line regimen?

Accepted Answer

Amoxicillin 500 mg three times daily

Answer

Current US guidelines recommend amoxicillin as first-line monotherapy for outpatient CAP in patients without comorbidities or risk factors for drug-resistant organisms.

Question 4

A premenopausal woman presents with an uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection. Urine culture grows E. coli susceptible to all agents tested. Which antibiotic is preferred due to stewardship concerns?

Accepted Answer

Nitrofurantoin

Answer

Nitrofurantoin is preferred for uncomplicated UTI to preserve fluoroquinolones and avoid broader-spectrum agents when susceptibility is not known at initiation.

Question 5

Which antibiotic class provides the most reliable coverage against anaerobic organisms, making it useful for intra-abdominal infections?

Accepted Answer

Metronidazole

Answer

Metronidazole has excellent anaerobic coverage and is a cornerstone agent in the treatment of intra-abdominal and pelvic infections.

(PSA) Prescribing Safety Assessment Practice Test

(PSA) Prescribing Safety Assessment Practice Test

PSA Antimicrobial Prescribing 2