Flora

Definition

Flora (microbiota) refers to the diverse microorganisms that normally live on the skin, mucous membranes, and in the GI, respiratory, and genitourinary tracts. Normal flora typically provides benefit by outcompeting pathogens and supporting digestion and immunity.

Key Sites

• Skin: Staphylococcus epidermidis, Propionibacterium
• Mouth: Streptococcus, Lactobacillus
• GI tract: E. coli, Bacteroides, Lactobacillus
• Vagina: Lactobacillus

Disruption of Flora

Antibiotics (especially broad-spectrum) can eradicate normal flora, permitting overgrowth of pathogens. Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), Candida (thrush, vaginal yeast infections). Probiotics (Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces) may help restore balance.

Nursing Considerations

Judicious antibiotic use; monitor for signs of C. diff (watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, leukocytosis). Teach patients to finish prescribed antibiotic courses and report new symptoms. Consider probiotics for at-risk patients.

NCLEX Relevance

C. diff as consequence of antibiotic use is classic.