Question

Why is Vitamin K administered to newborns?

A) To prevent jaundice

B) To boost immune system

C) To prevent hemorrhagic disease; newborns do not produce their own clotting factors because they lack bacteria to produce Vitamin K in the GI tract

D) To improve appetite

Answer 1

Vitamin K is administered to newborns c) to prevent hemorrhagic disease, as newborns do not produce their own clotting factors. Administering Vitamin K helps prevent excessive bleeding and ensures proper blood clotting in newborns.

Step-by-step explanation:

Vitamin K is administered to newborns to prevent hemorrhagic disease. This is because newborns do not produce their own clotting factors, as they lack the bacteria needed to produce Vitamin K in their gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Without sufficient Vitamin K, newborns are at risk of bleeding excessively, which can be life-threatening. Administering Vitamin K helps prevent this condition and ensures proper blood clotting in newborns.