NursingSprint

Antibiotic ointment to both eyes

⩥ This is routinely administered to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum, a severe eye infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis.

⩥ The ointment, usually erythromycin, is applied within 1–2 hours of birth as a prophylactic measure.

⩥ This intervention is mandated in many regions and is critical for preserving visual health in the newborn.

⩥ Delaying or omitting this medication could result in corneal ulceration and blindness.

Hepatitis B immunization

⩥ The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all newborns within 12 hours of birth, especially if the mother's HBsAg status is positive or unknown.

⩥ Early administration helps initiate the development of active immunity against the hepatitis B virus.

⩥ This vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule and reduces the risk of chronic liver disease later in life.

⩥ If maternal status is positive, the vaccine is given alongside hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG).

Vitamin K injection

⩥ Newborns are born with low stores of vitamin K, putting them at risk for vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB).

⩥ A single intramuscular dose of vitamin K is administered shortly after birth to promote normal blood clotting.

⩥ This preventive measure is essential to avoid intracranial hemorrhage and other potentially fatal bleeding disorders.

⩥ Oral administration is less effective and not typically recommended in the immediate newborn period.