Question

A mother questions why the ophthalmic medication is given to the baby. Which of the following responses by the nurse would be appropriate to make at this time?

1. "I am required by law to give the medicine."
2. "The medicine helps to prevent eye infections."
3. "The medicine promotes neonatal health."
4. "All babies receive the medicine at delivery.

Answer 1

The ophthalmic medication is given to prevent eye infections in babies.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate response by the nurse would be option 2: The medicine helps to prevent eye infections. The ophthalmic medication, such as erythromycin, is given to infants shortly after birth to prevent eye infections. This is important because babies can be exposed to bacteria, such as N. gonorrhoeae or C. trachomatis, during delivery, which can lead to serious complications like vision loss or blindness if left untreated.