Author Question: Parents of a newborn ask the nurse why vitamin K is being administered. The nurse accurately ... (Read 59 times)

genevieve1028 · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

Parents of a newborn ask the nurse why vitamin K is being administered. The nurse accurately responds by explaining phytonadione (vitamin K) is administered to the newborn to:

a. prevent bleeding.
b. enhance immune response.
c. prevent bacterial infection.
d. maintain nutritional status.

Question 2

Which is most important in the immediate care of the newborn?

a. Maintain patent airway.
b. Maintain stable body temperature.
c. Administer prophylactic eye care.
d. Establish identification of mother and baby.

fwbard · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Vitamin K is administered to prevent hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. Vitamin K is synthesized by the intestinal flora. Because the newborn's intestine is sterile and breast milk is low in vitamin K, a supplemental source must be supplied. The purpose is not to enhance the immune response, prevent bacterial infection, or maintain nutritional status. The major function of vitamin K is to catalyze the liver synthesis of prothrombin, which is needed for blood clotting and coagulation.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Maintaining a patent airway is the primary objective in the care of the newborn. The nurse uses a bulb syringe to clear the pharynx, followed by the nasal passages. Conserving the newborn's body heat and maintaining a stable body temperature are important, but a patent airway must be established first. These are important functions, but physiologic stability is the first priority in the immediate care of the newborn.