Final answer:
Ophthalmia neonatorum is inflammation of the newborn's eyes caused by gonorrheal or chlamydial infection acquired during birth. Antibacterial creams or drops are applied to prevent this infection. If left untreated, ophthalmia neonatorum can lead to corneal ulceration and vision loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ophthalmia neonatorum is inflammation of the newborn's eyes from gonorrheal or chlamydial infection contracted by the newborn during passage through the mother's birth canal. To prevent this infection, B or C ointment is usually instilled into the newborn's eyes within 1 to 2 hours after birth. Antibacterial creams or drops, such as erythromycin, are commonly used to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum. If left untreated, this infection can lead to serious complications such as corneal ulceration and vision loss.