A pregnant patient with asymptomatic bacteriuria should?

A patient with asymptomatic bacteriuria should receive antibiotics because this condition can lead to significant complications if left untreated. It is characterized by the presence of bacteria in the urine without any symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). In pregnant individuals, asymptomatic bacteriuria is particularly concerning as it can increase the risk of developing a symptomatic UTI, which can subsequently lead to more serious complications such as pyelonephritis or adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Antibiotic treatment not only clears the bacteria from the urinary tract but also helps in preventing potential complications that could affect both the mother and the fetus. Current guidelines recommend screening for bacteriuria early in pregnancy, and if detected, effective antibiotic therapy is essential to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby.

While increased fluid intake and monitoring can be supportive measures, they are not definitive treatments for asymptomatic bacteriuria. Delaying treatment until symptoms occur is inadvisable due to the risk of serious complications. Thus, initiating appropriate antibiotic therapy is the correct approach to managing this condition effectively.