Contact Hour Designation
This online independent study activity is credited for 4 contact hours.
Course Purpose
The purpose of this course is to provide healthcare professionals with an overview of antibiotics, their classifications, mechanisms of action and selection criteria, and antibiotic resistance, side effects, and nursing considerations for antibiotic therapy.
Overview
In the United States, 236 million outpatient antibiotic prescriptions are dispensed annually, with penicillin, macrolides, and cephalosporins being among the most used. Despite their remarkable benefits, antibiotics have also brought about unforeseen challenges. Misuse and overuse of these compounds have fueled the emergence of antibiotic resistance, rendering some infections virtually untreatable. This course provides a comprehensive overview of antibiotics, their classifications, mechanisms of action, and selection criteria. Antibiotic resistance, side effects, and nursing considerations will also be examined to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and understanding to optimize antibiotic therapy while minimizing risks and promoting patient safety.
Objectives
Upon completion of the independent study, the learner will be able to:
- Review how antibiotics are selected to combat infections.
- Differentiate between bactericidal and bacteriostatic antibiotics and their pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties.
- Recognize the importance of taking antibiotics in completion, and as prescribed.
- Review antibiotic resistance, and the three primary mechanisms how resistance genes can be transferred.
- Identify side effects and allergic reactions commonly associated with antibiotics.
Policy Statement
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the policies of FastCEForLess.com.
Disclosures
Fast CE For Less, Inc. and its authors have no disclosures. There is no commercial support.
