What kinds of infections are beta-lactamase inhibitor + PCN combinations used for?

Beta-lactamase inhibitor and penicillin (PCN) combinations are specifically designed to combat a range of serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by organisms that produce beta-lactamase enzymes, which can inactivate many penicillins. The addition of a beta-lactamase inhibitor enhances the effectiveness of penicillin against resistant bacterial strains, making these combinations especially useful in the treatment of severe infections.

These combinations are effective in managing severe infections that include those caused by anaerobic bacteria and are crucial in treating hospital-acquired pneumonias, where resistant organisms are more prevalent. In such scenarios, the enhanced spectrum of activity provided by the beta-lactamase inhibitor allows for better coverage against difficult-to-treat pathogens involved in these serious infections.

In contrast, less severe infections may not necessitate such a potent combination, viral infections are not affected by antibiotics since they target bacteria, and while they may treat skin infections, the context of severe infections aligns more closely with the capabilities of the beta-lactamase inhibitor and PCN combination. Therefore, option B accurately reflects the intended clinical use for these antibiotic combinations.