Guideline
Management of Neonates Born at ≤34 6/7 Weeks' Gestation With Suspected or Proven Early-Onset Bacterial Sepsis
- Early-onset sepsis
- Infection
- Medical
- Nursing
This guideline is from 2018, more than five years ago. Check whether a newer version exists and which version your unit follows.
Summary
This AAP clinical report addresses the management of preterm infants born at or before 34 6/7 weeks' gestation with suspected or proven early-onset bacterial sepsis. It summarises the current epidemiology of preterm EOS, noting gestational age as the strongest predictor and the poor predictive value of laboratory tests alone. It highlights concerns about prolonged empirical antibiotic exposure without culture-confirmed infection and its association with poor outcomes. It provides guidance on using delivery characteristics to identify lower-risk infants and inform decisions to start or stop antibiotics.
Summary written for NICUlearn. Always read the original.
- Licence:
- Summary and link only
Guidelines are shown for education. Follow your unit's own guidance and senior advice.