Antibiotics are typically initiated when there is a high suspicion of bacterial infection, even before cultures confirm the diagnosis. Indications for starting antibiotics include:
- Clinical signs of sepsis (e.g., fever, lethargy, respiratory distress) - Positive maternal history for infections such as Group B Streptococcus - Prolonged rupture of membranes during delivery - Presence of risk factors like low birth weight and prematurity
