i.
Provide for infant's safety while in open warmer.
j. Place the infant in an isolette if his temperature is below 98F rectally. If the
infant's temperature is above 98F rectally, place him in an open crib.
NOTE:
Step "j" is done after the initial assessment and procedures are completed.
8-5.
ADMINISTRATION OF VITAMIN K
Vitamin K is given as a prophylaxis for hemorrhagic disease. It is administered
intramuscular (IM) in the vastus lateralis muscle (see figure 8-9).
Figure 8-9. Intramuscular injection.
8-6.
EYE PROPHYLAXIS FOR THE NEWBORN
This procedure is required by law in all states as prophylaxis against gonorrhea.
a. Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment. This has become the drug of choice
and is received in a sterile syringe from the pharmacy. It is injected into each eye from
the inner to outer canthus immediately after birth (see figure 8-10). It does not appear
to cause much eye irritation.
b. 1% Silver Nitrate Solution. Two drops are applied in each eye in the
conjunctival sac, not the cornea. The infant eyes may or may not be irrigated after
instillation, depending on local policy. The infant may get profused discharge and
chemical conjunctivitis for a few days with no residual damage. One percent silver
nitrate solution is no longer recommended for use.
MD0922
8-12