Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
In an effort to decrease complications for the infant right after birth, the nurse would expect to administer which medication for prophylaxis of potential eye conditions?In an effort to decrease complications for the infant right after birth, the nurse would expect to administer which medication for prophylaxis of potential eye conditions?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment. This medication is administered to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum, an eye infection that can occur in newborns due to exposure to maternal gonorrhea or chlamydia during birth. Erythromycin ointment is effective in preventing this infection and reducing the risk of complications such as conjunctivitis or corneal ulceration. Vitamin K (choice A) is given to prevent bleeding disorders in newborns. Gentamicin ointment (choice C) is not typically used for prophylaxis in newborns. Silver nitrate solution (choice D) used to be commonly used for prophylaxis but has been replaced by erythromycin due to concerns about its efficacy and potential side effects.