Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics, how can doctors reduce the number of resistant bacteria? (2 marks)

This is a two mark question so we need two points. Firstly doctors should only prescribe antibiotics for a confirmed bacterial infection, antibiotics won't work on viruses and if given may allow commensal bacteria to develop resistance. Secondly doctors should make sure the patient understands the importance of completing the entire treatment, as stopping early may leave resistant bacteria that are able to multiply and cause further disease.