Which term describes an antimicrobial that is effective against multiple organisms?

Which term describes an antimicrobial that is effective against multiple organisms?

• A. Narrow Spectrum
• B. Broad
• C. Natural
• D. Broad Spectrum

Answer: (D)

The concept being tested is the spectrum of activity—how many different organisms an antimicrobial can affect. Antimicrobials that work against a wide range of organisms are described as broad-spectrum, which is why this term best fits the question. The standard label used in microbiology is broad-spectrum, not just “broad,” and it contrasts with narrow-spectrum, which targets a limited group of organisms. The option labeled natural refers to origin rather than how many organisms are inhibited. So, broad-spectrum is the correct description for an antimicrobial effective against multiple organisms.

The concept being tested is the spectrum of activity—how many different organisms an antimicrobial can affect. Antimicrobials that work against a wide range of organisms are described as broad-spectrum, which is why this term best fits the question. The standard label used in microbiology is broad-spectrum, not just “broad,” and it contrasts with narrow-spectrum, which targets a limited group of organisms. The option labeled natural refers to origin rather than how many organisms are inhibited. So, broad-spectrum is the correct description for an antimicrobial effective against multiple organisms.