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.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Broad-spectrum antibiotics not only inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria but also the beneficial bacteria in the gut. These beneficial bacteria play a vital role in synthesizing certain vitamins such as vitamin K and vitamin B12. Therefore, a reduction in intestinal bacteria due to broad-spectrum antibiotics can result in the deficiency of certain vitamins in the patient, making option E the correct choice.

Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics Inhibit the Growth of Most Intestinal Bacteria