What consequence can result from a delay in antimicrobial treatment?

• A. Immediate resolution of symptoms
• B. Late treatment can lead to severe outcomes
• C. Increased immunity to infections
• D. Improved recovery time

Answer: (B)

A delay in antimicrobial treatment can lead to severe outcomes because the infectious agent continues to proliferate and potentially worsen the patient’s condition. For instance, untreated infections can spread locally or systemically, leading to complications such as sepsis, organ failure, or even death. The longer the delay, the greater the risk of complications, as the body may struggle to manage the infection effectively without the aid of antimicrobial agents.

In addition, delaying treatment can allow an infection to progress to a stage where it becomes more challenging to treat, either due to heightened virulence or the development of antibiotic resistance as the infectious organisms adapt to their environment. Thus, timely administration of antimicrobial treatment is critical to minimizing these risks and ensuring a better outcome for the patient.