Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What complication is recognized in both early and late onset Group B streptococcal infections in neonates?

1. Pneumonia

2. Meningitis

3. Respiratory distress syndrome

4. Sepsis

The correct answer is: Meningitis

Neonates can experience both early and late onset Group B streptococcal (GBS) infections, with meningitis being a notable complication of these infections. Early onset GBS infection typically presents within the first week of life and is characterized by conditions such as pneumonia and sepsis. Late onset GBS infection occurs from one week to three months of age and frequently presents as meningitis. Meningitis can arise as a complication from both early and late onset infections due to GBS, as the bacterium can invade the central nervous system leading to inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This can result in significant neurological impairment and other severe complications if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Pneumonia, while a potential complication of early onset GBS, is not recognized in late onset cases. Respiratory distress syndrome is more commonly linked to other conditions and primarily seen in preterm neonates, not specifically tied to GBS infections. Sepsis is indeed linked to both early and late onset GBS infections, but meningitis specifically serves as a distinctive outcome that characterizes the later presentation of the infection. Thus, meningitis stands out as the complication that is consistently associated with both early and late onset GBS infections