Prophylactic antibiotics are often indicated in several scenarios in neonatal care:
Premature Infants: Premature babies, especially those born before 32 weeks of gestation, are at increased risk for infections due to their underdeveloped immune responses. Surgical Procedures: Neonates undergoing surgeries, such as those for congenital anomalies like gastroschisis or congenital diaphragmatic hernia, are often given prophylactic antibiotics to prevent postoperative infections. Prolonged Rupture of Membranes (PROM): When the amniotic sac ruptures more than 18 hours before delivery, there is an increased risk for ascending infections, making prophylactic antibiotics necessary. Group B Streptococcus (GBS): Mothers who are known carriers of GBS, or have other risk factors, may necessitate prophylactic antibiotics for their newborns to prevent vertical transmission.
