For a pregnant patient with pyelonephritis, which of the following antibiotics is an appropriate choice?

Ceftriaxone is considered an appropriate antibiotic choice for treating pyelonephritis in a pregnant patient due to its safety profile and effectiveness in addressing this severe urinary tract infection. This third-generation cephalosporin is known for its broad-spectrum activity against a variety of bacteria, including those commonly associated with pyelonephritis. It is well-studied and deemed safe for use during pregnancy, which is critical as treatment must consider both maternal and fetal safety.

The other antibiotics mentioned, while they have their own uses, carry certain concerns in the context of pregnancy or are not first-line treatments for pyelonephritis. Nitrofurantoin, though often used for lower urinary tract infections, is not recommended for use in the third trimester due to the risk of potential fetal toxicity. Piperacillin/Tazobactam is indeed effective against many pathogens but may not be the preferred choice in this scenario. Clindamycin, while used for specific infections, does not provide the broad coverage needed for pyelonephritis and can be less effective against the common organisms involved.

Therefore, ceftriaxone is favored because it balances efficacy, safety, and the need for prompt treatment in the context of this potentially serious condition