What is the most common causative agent of congenital pneumonia in a former 37-week-gestation infant?

Prepare for the NCC Low Risk Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you succeed and get ready for your exam!

The most common causative agent of congenital pneumonia in a former 37-week-gestation infant is indeed correctly identified as Group B Streptococcus. This organism is typically found in the gastrointestinal and lower genital tracts of healthy adults, and it can be transmitted from the mother to the infant during labor and delivery.

Group B Streptococcus is a significant cause of early-onset sepsis and pneumonia in newborns, particularly in preterm infants or those born to mothers who are carriers of the bacteria. It's understood that the risk increases when there are factors such as prolonged rupture of membranes, maternal fever, or a history of GBS infection in previous pregnancies.

In comparison, while Staphylococcus epidermidis and E. coli can cause infections in the neonatal population, they are not as commonly associated specifically with congenital pneumonia in this age group. Staphylococcus epidermidis is part of the skin flora and is more likely to be involved in infections related to central lines or other invasive procedures. E. coli is generally related to urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal issues, although it can cause sepsis, it is not the primary agent for congenital pneumonia. Ureaplasma urealyticum can be linked to various respiratory and other infections in neonates

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy