What it means
Living microorganisms, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii, found in yogurt, kefir and other fermented foods and in supplements. They may help prevent diarrhea caused by antibiotics, which kill helpful gut bacteria along with harmful ones. They are not regulated as drugs in the US, so products vary.
For the nurse
Ask whether the client takes probiotics. Clients with a very weak immune system or a central line should check with their provider first, because the live organisms can rarely cause infection.
At a glance
| Spanish | probiótico |
|---|---|
| Also written | probiotics |
Related terms
C. difficile
Clostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).
diarrhea
Loose or watery stools, usually three or more times a day or more often than normal for the person.
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.