Antibiotics and Infection Control Vocabulary

Flashcards covering vocabulary terms related to antibiotics, infections, and related medications.

Anaerobic

Bacteria that doesn’t require oxygen.

Aerobic

Bacteria that DOES require oxygen.

Bacteriostatic

Slows the growth of bacteria so immune system can destroy it.

Bactericidal

Kills bacteria directly.

Broad Spectrum

Covers wide variety of bacteria.

Narrow Spectrum

Covers only specific bacteria.

Prophylaxis

Preventative treatment; examples include cardiac, GI, peripheral vascular, gynecological, orthopedic, recurrent UTI, and STD.

Resistance

Bacteria creates mutations that become resistant to traditional treatment (e.g., MRSA, VRE, CRE).

Thrombophlebitis

Inflammation in a vein.

Superinfections

Infections that occur due to a decrease in the effectiveness of normal flora; can decrease effectiveness of oral contraception.

Photosensitivity

Sensitivity to light

Ototoxicity

Damage to the ear, resulting in hearing loss or balance issues.

Renal toxicity

Damage to the kidneys.

Hepatotoxicity

Damage to the liver.

Vancomycin flushing syndrome

A reaction to vancomycin characterized by flushing, rash, and itching, often due to rapid infusion.

Antimycobacterials

Medication to treat TB.

Azoles

A class of antifungal medications used to treat yeast infections.

Antiprotozoals

Medications used to treat protozoal infections such as C-diff and anaerobic bacteria.

Antifungals

Medications used to treat fungal infections.

Antivirals

Medications used to inhibit viral replication.