The value of routine empiric antibiotic use in neonates born to mothers with prolonged rupture of membranes

Background. The routine use of empiric antibiotics in neonates born to mothers with prolonged rupture membranes (PROM) iscontroversial.Objectives. To determine the incidence probable and proven sepsis such identify risk factors for theiroutcomes.Methods. This was a retrospective chart review conducted at King Edward VIII Hospital over two years. Study participants included 200neonates 181 mothers. Data were captured onto Microsoft Excel, collated analysed using descriptive statistics comparative data utilising R Core Team’s Statistical Computing Software, 2020.Results. Seven (3.5%) had sepsis, 58 (29%) 135 (67.5%) without sepsis. Two (1.0%) died 188 (94.0%) received antibiotics. White cell count normal all cases abnormal 65.5% 28.6% respectively. A raised C-reactive protein observed only 22.4% 14.3% One hundred sixty-seven (83.5%) no Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening. Of those screened, three GBS infection, but did not receive antibiotics.Conclusions. following PROM is low. Identifying challenging, absence clinical features rapidly obtained supportive laboratory markers provides reassurance that could be temporarily withheld. Better screening programmes appropriate antibiotic responses pregnant women should implemented rigorously.