Final answer:
Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn, or vitamin K deficiency, can lead to clotting issues and is managed by prophylactic administration of vitamin K. Risk factors include certain maternal medications, breastfeeding without supplementation, and malabsorption disorders. HDN due to Rh factor incompatibility is prevented by administering Rho(D) immune globulin to Rh-negative mothers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Risk Factors and Management of Hemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn
Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn, also known as vitamin K deficiency in infants, is a condition where a newborn's blood does not clot properly due to insufficient vitamin K levels. Risk factors include breastfeeding without vitamin K supplementation, antibiotic use that disrupts gut flora, malabsorption disorders like celiac disease, and maternal medication use such as warfarin. Liver disease in the newborn can also lead to deficiency.
Management involves prophylactic administration of vitamin K at birth, either intramuscularly or orally, to prevent bleeding complications. In cases of active bleeding due to vitamin K deficiency, intravenous administration of vitamin K and possibly blood transfusion may be necessary. Mothers are encouraged to maintain a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, whole wheat, fruits, nuts, and legumes during pregnancy to prevent deficiencies.
Unlike with hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) caused by Rh factor incompatibility, vitamin K deficiency bleeding can occur in the first pregnancy. HDN is more common in subsequent pregnancies and can be prevented by administering Rho(D) immune globulin to Rh-negative mothers. This underscores the importance of prenatal care in preventing both conditions.