Discuss three factors that are contributing to the development of multidrug-resistant organisms and what you can do to slow the growth of resistant organisms

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: (Any three of the following)
• Incorrect use of antibiotics aids the development of resistant organisms. Individuals can do their part by taking antibiotics as directed (i.e., do not skip doses and continue to take the drug until the regimen is complete even if symptoms are gone).
• People often want and expect their health care provider to prescribe antibiotics for virtually any illness. Many health care providers continue to prescribe antibiotics for illnesses not caused by bacteria. An individual can do their part by modifying their own expectations of their health care provider and by asking if the prescribed antibiotic is necessary to treat their particular illness.
• Antibiotics are widely used in food production. Many people believe antibiotics in our food supply are leading to the development of resistant organisms. An individual may try to avoid or limit their ingestion of antibiotic-rich substances. The individual's contribution in this way is made more difficult if proper and complete labeling of food products is not required.
• Many soaps and cleaning products are antibacterial which, combined with inadequate hand-washing, may lead to growth of resistant organisms. Individuals should not use antibacterial soap products for routine hand-washing and should wash their hands at least 20 seconds with regular soap and rinse well with warm water.