Why was ciprofloxacin selected for a client with a complicated urinary tract infection?

Ciprofloxacin was selected for a client with a complicated urinary tract infection primarily due to its good penetration of the genitourinary tract. This fluoroquinolone antibiotic is particularly effective in treating infections of the urinary tract because it achieves high concentrations in urine and tissues, including the kidneys and bladder. This ability to penetrate well into the urinary system enhances its effectiveness in combatting the specific pathogens that cause complicated urinary tract infections.

While affordability, minimal side effects, and rapid action are considerations in selecting an antibiotic, the key factor in this context is the antibiotic's pharmacokinetics— especially its targeted effectiveness in the urinary tract. Ciprofloxacin's strong tissue and urine concentrations enable it to address the complex and often resistant bacterial strains present in complicated cases, making it a preferred choice in these situations.