COMAT Surgery Practice Test

Cefazolin is classified as a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. First-generation cephalosporins, like cefazolin, are known for their effectiveness against many Gram-positive bacteria, particularly staphylococci and streptococci. They also possess some activity against Gram-negative bacteria, although to a lesser extent compared to later generations. The primary use of cefazolin is for surgical prophylaxis and treating skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections caused by susceptible organisms. Its spectrum of activity primarily includes Gram-positive organisms and some Gram-negative bacteria, which distinguishes it from second-generation, third-generation, and fourth-generation cephalosporins. Each subsequent generation generally has increased activity against Gram-negative bacteria and decreased effectiveness against Gram-positive strains, which is not the case with cefazolin as a first-generation agent.