For a client with group B streptococcus B-hemolytic infection in labor, which antibiotic should be administered?

Ampicillin is the recommended antibiotic for managing a group B streptococcus (GBS) B-hemolytic infection in labor. GBS is a common bacterium found in the vaginal and rectal areas, and while it is often harmless in adults, it can pose significant risks to newborns during delivery.

Administering ampicillin during labor is effective in reducing the risk of early-onset GBS disease in the newborn. The goal is to provide prophylaxis to prevent transmission from the mother to the infant during childbirth. Ampicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic that is effective against the streptococcus bacteria, making it the first-line treatment for this specific concern.

Other antibiotics listed, such as azithromycin, ceftriaxone, and acyclovir, are not effective against GBS. Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic typically used for treating respiratory infections and certain sexually transmitted infections but does not target GBS. Ceftriaxone, a cephalosporin antibiotic, could be used for other types of infections but is not the first choice for GBS prophylaxis. Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used primarily for herpes virus infections and has no effect on bacterial infections like GBS. Thus,