The nurse is discussing treatment for a superinfection with a client and family members. The family asks the nurse what a superinfection is. What is the best response by the nurse?

Question

1. An infection caused by a weakened immune system
2. A secondary infection that occurs when microorganisms normally present in the body are killed by the drug
3. An infection that is difficult to treat
4. A drug-resistant infection

Answer 1

2

Rationale 1:Aninfection caused by a weakened immune system is incorrect.
Rationale 2: One common adverse effect of anti-infective therapy is the appearance of secondary infections, called superinfections, which occur when microorganisms normally present in the body are killed by the drug. These normal microorganisms, or host flora, inhabit the skin and the upper respiratory, genitourinary, and intestinal tracts. Some of these organisms serve a useful purpose by producing antibacterial substances and by competing with pathogenic organisms for space and nutrients. Removal of host flora by an antibiotic gives pathogenic microorganisms space to grow, or allows for overgrowth of nonaffected normal flora.
Rationale 3:An infection that is difficult to treat is incorrect.
Rationale 4:A drug-resistant infection is incorrect.

Global Rationale: One common adverse effect of anti-infective therapy is the appearance of secondary infections, called superinfections, which occur when microorganisms normally present in the body are killed by the drug. These normal microorganisms, or host flora, inhabit the skin and the upper respiratory, genitourinary, and intestinal tracts. Some of these organisms serve a useful purpose by producing antibacterial substances and by competing with pathogenic organisms for space and nutrients. Removal of host flora by an antibiotic gives pathogenic microorganisms space to grow, or allows for overgrowth of nonaffected normal flora.