Signs and symptoms are very nonspecific.
Risk factors
Prematurity
Chorioamnionitis
Intrapartum fever
Prolonged rupture of membranes
Most common organisms: group B Streptococcus, E. coli, and Listeria monocytogenes.
Diagnosis—sepsis workup: CBC, differential and platelets, blood culture, urinalysis and culture, chest radiograph (Lumbar puncture not routinely performed unless there is a likelihood of meningitis, e.g., irritability, lethargy, hypothermia, etc.)
Treatment
If no evidence of meningitis: ampicillin and aminoglycoside until 48–72-hour cultures are negative
If meningitis or diagnosis is possible: ampicillin and third-generation cephalosporin (not ceftriaxone)