Pediatric HESI Test Bank Related

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Parents of a newborn ask the nurse why vitamin K is being administered. The nurse accurately responds by explaining phytonadione (vitamin K) is administered to the newborn to:

  • A. prevent bleeding.
  • B. enhance immune response.
  • C. prevent bacterial infection.
  • D. maintain nutritional status.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Vitamin K is essential for the production of clotting factors in the liver. Newborns have lower levels of vitamin K and may not have a fully functioning clotting system, putting them at risk for bleeding disorders such as vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). Administering vitamin K to newborns helps prevent these bleeding issues and ensures proper clotting function. It does not have a direct effect on enhancing the immune response, preventing bacterial infections, or maintaining nutritional status, as its primary function in this context is to prevent bleeding disorders.