Immediately after delivery, the nurse prepares to give the newborn a vitamin K injection. The new father is watching and asks the nurse why the baby is receiving a "shot." The nurse would explain that vitamin K injections are given to newborn infants to:
A)Activate clotting factors.
B)Break up blood clots.
C)Promote red blood cell function and assist in gas exchange.
D)Promote the production of hemoglobin.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vitamin K injections are given to newborn infants to activate clotting factors. Newborns do not have enough vitamin K in their bodies to activate these factors, which can put them at risk for bleeding disorders. The injection helps prevent bleeding in the first days of life.

Immediately After Delivery, the Nurse Prepares to Give the Newborn