What it means
Group B streptococcus (GBS) lives harmlessly in the gut and vagina of many healthy adults, but it can cause serious infection in a newborn exposed during birth. Pregnant clients are swabbed (lower vagina and rectum) at about 36 to 37 weeks. A positive result means IV antibiotics, usually penicillin, are given during labor, ideally starting at least 4 hours before birth.
For the nurse
Check the GBS result when a client is admitted in labor, and start antibiotics promptly as ordered for a positive or unknown result with risk factors. Watch the newborn for signs of infection.
At a glance
| Normal range | Negative |
|---|---|
| Also written | GBS culture, GBS screen, group B strep culture |
Related terms
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.
Streptococcus
A group of round bacteria that grow in chains, some of which cause infections in people.