The nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with frequent infections with Strep throat. Which of the following principles contributes to further bacterial resistance to antibiotics? (Select All that Apply.)

A) Receiving excessive sunlight while on antibiotics:
While certain antibiotics, such as tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones, can cause photosensitivity and may lead to increased risk of sunburn when exposed to excessive sunlight, this does not directly contribute to bacterial resistance. Photosensitivity is a side effect, but it does not affect how bacteria respond to the antibiotic treatment. Therefore, this is not a factor in promoting bacterial resistance.

B) Discontinuing antibiotics once symptoms subside:
Discontinuing antibiotics prematurely when symptoms improve is a major contributor to antibiotic resistance. If the antibiotic course is not completed as prescribed, some bacteria may survive, particularly those that are less susceptible to the drug. These surviving bacteria can develop resistance to the antibiotic, making future infections harder to treat. It is essential for patients to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if they start feeling better, to ensure all bacteria are eradicated.

C) Performing frequent handwashing while taking antibiotics:
Handwashing is an essential practice in preventing the spread of infections, and it does not contribute to bacterial resistance. In fact, frequent handwashing can help reduce the transmission of pathogens, including bacteria, and minimize the need for antibiotics. Hand hygiene is an important preventive measure, especially for individuals taking antibiotics to avoid spreading infections to others. Therefore, this does not promote bacterial resistance.

D) Skipping dosages:
Skipping doses of antibiotics contributes to bacterial resistance because it leads to subtherapeutic levels of the antibiotic in the body. When the antibiotic concentration is not high enough to kill the bacteria, some bacteria may survive and adapt, potentially becoming resistant to the drug. It is critical to take antibiotics as prescribed, without skipping doses, to maintain the necessary drug levels to effectively kill the bacteria.

E) Treating viral infections with antibiotics:
Treating viral infections with antibiotics is a significant driver of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viral ones. Using antibiotics unnecessarily for viral infections, such as the common cold, influenza, or viral sore throats, promotes the development of resistant bacteria. This overuse of antibiotics inappropriately increases selective pressure, allowing bacteria to evolve mechanisms to resist the effects of these drugs.

F) Frequent use of antibiotics:
Frequent use of antibiotics is a known contributor to bacterial resistance. Every time antibiotics are used, there is a chance that bacteria may develop resistance. This is especially true when antibiotics are used inappropriately or excessively. Overuse can lead to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains, making future infections harder to treat. This is why it's important to use antibiotics only when necessary and to follow appropriate guidelines for their use.