Microbiology

Question 1

Is it significant if:

• staph aureus is found in only one culture bottle
• coliform found in one culture bottle only?

Answer 1

• likely a contaminant (along with other skin commensals)

- significant - coliforms are rarely a contaminant

Question 2

What is aztreonam used for?

Answer 2

Narrow spectrum for gram negative bacteria
Can be used as a substitute for gentamicin
Spares the kidneys
Not as effective in gram negative sepsis as gentamicin so not first line but can be used for patients with kidney disease.

Question 3

How many days in a row can patients be treated with gentamicin?

Answer 3

In general, 3 days max

Can give more if renal function is still ok

Question 4

Leg ulcer is swabbed and is culture positive. When should it be treated?

Answer 4

Only treat if there are symptoms of cellulitis around the ulcer (red, hot, swollen, painful around ulcer)

Question 5

Following GU and GI sepsis, what is the appropriate step down antibiotic treatment after IV antibiotics

Answer 5

Co-trimoxazole

Question 6

Which antibiotic is used for uncomplicated (LUT) urinary tract infection?

Answer 6

Nitrofurantoin

Question 7

What is a side effect of long term nitrofurantoin?

Answer 7

Pulmonary fibrosis