What is the purpose of vitamin K injection?
Vitamin K helps the blood to clot and prevents serious bleeding. In newborns, vitamin K injections can prevent a now rare, but potentially fatal, bleeding disorder called ‘vitamin K deficiency bleeding’ (VKDB), also known as ‘haemorrhagic disease of the newborn’ (HDN).
Why would a patient need vitamin K?
Vitamin K refers to a group of fat-soluble vitamins that play a role in blood clotting, bone metabolism, and regulating blood calcium levels. The body needs vitamin K to produce prothrombin, a protein and clotting factor that is important in blood clotting and bone metabolism.
Should my baby have vitamin K injection?
Yes, health experts recommend that all newborns get a dose of vitamin K at birth. Babies aren’t born with enough of this important vitamin, which is needed for blood to clot normally.
Where is Vit K injection given?
This medication is given by injection under the skin or into a muscle or vein as directed by your doctor. If this medication is given into a vein, it should be injected very slowly (no more than 1 milligram per minute) to reduce the risk of serious side effects.
When should I take vitamin K injection?
Vitamin K should be injected into a muscle or vein only when it cannot be given by injection under the skin or taken by mouth, or when your doctor has judged that the benefit is greater than the risk.
What are the deficiency diseases of vitamin K?
Vitamin K deficiency can contribute to significant bleeding, poor bone development, osteoporosis, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB) in newborns can be separated into three categories based on the timing of the presentation.
Why do babies get vit K at birth?
Low levels of vitamin K can lead to dangerous bleeding in newborns and infants. The vitamin K given at birth provides protection against bleeding that could occur because of low levels of this essential vitamin. Below are some commonly asked questions and their answers.