Broad-spectrum antibiotics inhibit the growth of most intestinal bacteria. Consequently, assuming that nothing is done to counter the reduction of intestinal bacteria, a hospital patient who is receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics is most likely to become
A) unable to fix carbon dioxide.
B) antibiotic resistant.
C) unable to fix nitrogen.
D) unable to synthesize peptidoglycan.
E) deficient in certain vitamins and nutrients.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Broad-spectrum antibiotics not only inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria but also normal intestinal bacteria. Some of these normal bacteria produce vitamins and help in the absorption of nutrients in the gut. Reduction of these bacteria can lead to vitamin and nutrient deficiencies, hence E is the best choice.

Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics Inhibit the Growth of Most Intestinal Bacteria