Universal screening for maternal group B Streptococcus (GBS) in the prenatal period has led to administration of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP). Although IAP decreased the rate of early neonatal GBS disease, exposure of childbearing women to penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics has increased. Beta-lactam-induced anaphylaxis in the breastfeeding woman during the postpartum period illustrates risk factors for beta-lactam allergy and anaphylaxis. Treatment and nursing implications for this adverse reaction are suggested.
Keywords: anaphylaxis; beta-lactam allergy; intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis; maternal group B Streptococcus.
© 2015 AWHONN, the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses.