Final answer:
Eye drops containing silver nitrate or antibiotics are used to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum in newborns, caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which can lead to permanent blindness if not treated.
Step-by-step explanation:
Eye drops containing silver nitrate or antibiotics are used to prevent an infection known as gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum, which is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This condition is a form of neonatal conjunctivitis that newborn babies can contract when exposed to the bacterium during passage through the birth canal. If left untreated, the infection can lead to serious complications such as corneal ulceration, vision loss, or permanent blindness. Hence, administering eye drops or ointments immediately after birth is a standard preventive practice in hospitals.