Keywords

group A streptococcus, necrotizing fasciitis, postpartum

 

Authors

  1. Sosa, Mary Ellen Burke MS, RNC-OB

Abstract

Streptococcal A infections are reemerging as a dangerous clinical problem. This particular infection is usually a problem for the postpartum mother and not usually associated with fetal or neonatal infections. Maternal morbidity and mortality are overwhelming when compared with other maternal infections. Historically, group A streptococcus was the cause of epidemic postpartum sepsis prior to the advent of proper hand-washing techniques. Currently, transmission can occur directly from a colonized healthcare provider, other patients, or a community-acquired source. The Joint Commission and the International Surviving Sepsis Campaign have placed patient safety and early recognition and treatment of sepsis as major initiatives to improving patient outcomes.