Antibiotic prophylaxis for caesarean section
RHL practical aspects by Cecatti JG
FIRST CONTACT (PRIMARY CARE) LEVEL
The results of the two Cochrane Reviews do not apply to the primary health care level, because caesarean section is not performed at this level.
REFERRAL HOSPITAL (SECONDARY CARE) LEVEL
All hospitals that perform caesarean sections should routinely provide antibiotic prophylaxis to all women undergoing caesarean sections. Ampicillin or a first generation cephalosporin administered as single dose regimen seems to be appropriate.
AT HOME OR IN THE COMMUNITY
Not applicable.
This document should be cited as: Cecatti JG. Antibiotic prophylaxis for caesarean section: RHL practical aspects (last revised: 18 January 2005). The WHO Reproductive Health Library; Geneva: World Health Organization.