Which action after culture results aligns with antibiotic stewardship?

• A. Escalate to broad-spectrum therapy
• B. De-escalate to targeted narrow-spectrum agent and shorten duration if appropriate
• C. Stop therapy immediately
• D. Switch to antiviral therapy

Answer: (B)

When culture results identify a specific pathogen and its susceptibilities, the best move is to switch to a narrow-spectrum antibiotic targeted to that organism and shorten the treatment duration if appropriate. This aligns with antibiotic stewardship by treating effectively while minimizing unnecessary exposure to broad-spectrum drugs, reducing side effects, costs, and the development of resistance.

Escalating to broad-spectrum therapy would unnecessarily broaden exposure and drive resistance. Stopping therapy immediately isn’t appropriate if there’s a confirmed infection requiring treatment. Switching to antiviral therapy is not relevant for bacterial infections.