For a planned elective cesarean section, when should preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis be administered for maximal reduction of surgical site infection?
- A Within 60 minutes before skin incision ✓
- B Only after cord clamping, irrespective of timing relative to incision
- C Within 6 hours after skin closure
- D Only if membranes have been ruptured for more than 12 hours
Correct answer: A. Within 60 minutes before skin incision
Explanation
Randomized trials including the CAESAR trial and subsequent meta-analyses show that giving the antibiotic, typically a single dose of cefazolin 1 to 2 g, within 60 minutes before skin incision lowers surgical site infection compared with administration after cord clamping, without harming the neonate. Postoperative-only or selective prophylaxis based on membrane rupture is inferior. Prophylaxis is indicated for all cesarean deliveries, elective or emergency.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.