Group B Strep
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
A GBS infection is a condition caused by bacteria called group B streptococcus. GBS are normally found in the digestive organs or vagina. A person may carry GBS and not get infected and become sick. GBS may cause infections in the blood, lungs, or skin. GBS rarely cause serious problems in adults, but can be life-threatening to babies. An infection may cause preterm delivery, stillbirth, or an infection in the mother's womb or bladder.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Informed consent
is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that your child may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your child's medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done to your child. Make sure all of your questions are answered.
Intake and output
may be measured. Healthcare providers will keep track of the amount of liquid your child is getting. They also may need to know how much your child is urinating. Ask healthcare providers if they need to measure or collect your child's urine.
Isolation
may be needed so your baby does not spread GBS to others. Everyone should wash their hands before and after visiting your baby.
An IV
is a small tube placed in your child's vein that is used to give medicine or liquids.
Medicines:
- Antibiotics are given to treat the infection.
- Anticonvulsants help control seizures.
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be given to decrease your baby's pain and fever.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Tests:
- Blood tests give healthcare providers information about how your baby's body is working.
- X-rays may be used to check your child's heart, lungs, and chest wall.
- A lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, may be used to take fluid from around your baby's spinal cord. A small needle will be placed into his or her lower back. Fluid is pulled out with the needle. The fluid will be tested for infection.
- Neurologic signs are also called neuro signs, neuro checks, or neuro status. During a neuro check, healthcare providers see how your baby's pupils react to light. They may check how easily he or she wakes up. How your baby responds to the neuro checks can tell healthcare providers if his or her brain is affected.
RISKS:
Your baby may develop sepsis, meningitis (infection of the membranes around the brain), or pneumonia (lung infection). He or she may also develop hearing, vision, speech, or learning problems. If left untreated, GBS infection may cause life-threatening brain or organ damage, or a coma.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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