Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

In the treatment of Group B streptococcal infection in neonates, which antibiotics are most effective?

1. Ampicillin and gentamicin

2. Ceftriaxone and vancomycin

3. Amoxicillin and clindamycin

4. Metronidazole and tetracycline

The correct answer is: Ampicillin and gentamicin

The effectiveness of Ampicillin and gentamicin in treating Group B streptococcal (GBS) infection in neonates stems from their established efficacy against the microbial characteristics of GBS and the common practice protocols adopted in neonatal care. Ampicillin is a penicillin antibiotic that is particularly effective against beta-hemolytic streptococci, including GBS, due to its ability to disrupt bacterial cell wall synthesis. Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside, provides additional coverage against potential Gram-negative pathogens and is often combined with Ampicillin for broader-spectrum coverage in cases of sepsis or suspected infections in neonates. This combination is widely recommended as the first-line treatment for GBS infection because it effectively addresses the intrauterine transmission of the organism and the risk of associated complications. The other combinations do not align with the typical treatment guidelines for GBS infections. Ceftriaxone and vancomycin, while effective against various infections, are not the first-line treatment for GBS in neonates. Amoxicillin and clindamycin could be useful in other contexts but are not standard for GBS. Metronidazole and tetracycline are generally more effective against anaerobic infections and other bacterial species, thus not