Is Important to Identify Bacteria Type Before Starting an Antibiotic?
Q. At the start of an infection in a bronchiectasis patient, is it important to identify the bacteria before starting antibiotic treatment? Or is it better to start a wide spectrum antibiotic first, then identify if not effective? Which is the best method? Paul A. Dear Paul, Empiric use of antibiotics is the norm here. There may be more than one organism active in bronchiectasis. Broad-spectrum antibiotics can deal with the most common bacterial invaders in bronchiectasis. Dr. Tom Oxygen Needs for Lung Patients who are Flying Q. Could you explain to me, in detail, how to know if a patient with COPD or any other lung disease who is on supplemental oxygen at home needs more oxygen if they are taking a flight. Also if you could send me some articles regarding this subject. P.S. I am a resident. Alan A. Dear Alan, All passengers will need more oxygen at the 8,000 to 10,000 feet cabin altitude. Look up Dr. Jamie Stoller’s article on air travel and the COPD patient’s requirement for suppleme
