Discuss4 marksStandard
A hospital introduced an antibiotic stewardship programme in 2019, which included restricting the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and improving hygiene measures. By 2023, cases of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) had fallen by 40%. However, some patients still request antibiotics for viral infections such as the common cold, and may not complete prescribed courses of antibiotics.
Discuss the mechanism of action of penicillin on bacteria, why antibiotics do not affect viruses, and the consequences of antibiotic resistance. With reference to the hospital scenario, discuss actions that can be taken to reduce the impact of antibiotic resistance.