Perinatal Care

Author(s):
Diana Yacoub, RN, BSN, MPA, CIC, CPHQ, FAPIC Assistant Vice President Infection Prevention

Hofstra University/Northwell Health
New York, NY

Victoria Vallejo, MD, MBA, MS, FACOG Associate Director of Ambulatory, Optimization, and Informatics, Northwell Health Assistant Professor Obstetrics and Gynecology

Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine
Hofstra University/Northwell Health
New York, NY

Adriann Combs, DNP, NNP-BC Assistant Vice President Quality and Safety Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hofstra University/Northwell Health
New York, NY

Tara Morales, MSN, RNC-OB Director, Patient Care Services

Hofstra University/Northwell Health
New York, NY

Original Publication:
May 6, 2025
Declarations of Conflicts of Interest:
  • Adriann Combs declares no conflicts of interest.
  • Tara Morales declares no conflicts of interest.
  • Victoria Vallejo declares no conflicts of interest.
  • Diana Yacoub declares no conflicts of interest.
Acknowledgments:

Special thanks to previous authors for the 2014 iteration of the chapter:

Mary T. Post, RN, MS, CNS, CIC 
Director, Infection Prevention
Oregon Patient Safety Commission - Portland, OR

Lori K. Irwin, RN, MSN, CNS
Professional Practice Leader
Women and Children's Services
Oregon Health and Sciences University - Portland, OR

Emily A. Ackiss MPH, CIC 
Infection Preventionist
Department of Infection Prevention and Control
Oregon Health and Science University - Portland, OR

Abstract

The perinatal period is the transition from pregnancy to postpartum and newborn phase of the reproductive life continuum. Pregnancy provides an opportunity to screen for diseases that impact the mother and her offspring. This period makes pregnant people and their newborns vulnerable to infections. Strategies to prevent hospital-acquired and postpartum infection can be employed. Vaccination for the mother before delivery and the newborn are included. The infection preventionist is a vital healthcare team member that promotes evidence-based infection control practices. Diligence to the environment, including cleaning and storing equipment, is paramount. Strategies for safely placing patients with potentially infectious diseases must be clear and employed when there is suspicion of transmission. Recommendations regarding patient placement and readmissions of postpartum patients and their newborns should be addressed. Standard policies and compliance with personal protective equipment (PPE)recommendations and dress codes are essential for breaking the chain of infection. This chapter will present the most recent evidence on infection prevention during the perinatal period.