When caring for a pregnant woman, why is it important to screen for group beta strep?

Screening for group beta strep (GBS) during pregnancy is crucial because it plays a significant role in preventing potential complications for both the mother and the newborn during labor and delivery. Group beta strep is a bacterium commonly found in the intestines and lower genital tract, and while it can be harmless to most adults, it can pose serious risks to newborns if transmitted during delivery.

The primary concern is that if a pregnant woman tests positive for GBS and it is not appropriately managed, the infant may develop a severe infection, such as early-onset sepsis, which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Administering intrapartum antibiotics to women who are GBS positive is a standard intervention that has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of neonatal infections.

Unlike the other options, this choice highlights the direct impact of GBS screening on maternal and neonatal health outcomes, making it a vital component of prenatal care for all pregnant women, not just those considered high-risk or those who have had children before.