Eye Prophylaxis for Newborn (Erythromycin)
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Outline
Overview
- Given to protect from neonatal conjunctivitis or ophthalmia neonatorum caused by chlamydia or gonorrhea
Nursing Points
General
- Required by law in US
- Parents have the right to refuse
- These conditions are transmitted to newborn in birth canal by mother infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia
- If not treated, can ultimately cause blindness
Assessment
- Assess eyes for redness or drainage
Therapeutic Management
- Give by 1 hours of life
- Open eyes
- Apply ointment from inner canthus to outer
- Don’t wipe off, will absorb
Nursing Concepts
- Pharmacology
- Infection control
Patient Education
- Educate mother/support system about this before you apply
- Educate mother/support system not to wipe it off
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Transcript
In this lesson I will help you understand the use of eye prophylaxis for the newborn and your role in this care.
Eye prophylaxis is given after delivery and is required by law in US. Parents can always refuse but it is mandated by the states. Transmission occurs from the newborn passing through the birth canal of a mother infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia. This causes conjunctivitis that can even lead to blindness If not treated. So this treatment is erythromycin eye ointment that is given to every newborn at delivery.
Assessment will be to check eyes for redness or drainage which would be signs of infection. The management will be administering the eye prophylaxis. This should be given by 1 hour of life by opening eyes and applying the ointment from the inner canthus to outer. And we don’t want to wipe it off, it will absorb.
Education will be for the parents on why we are applying this and then also to not wipe it off.
Pharmacology and infection control are the nursing concepts because this medication will hopefully prevent infection.
Eye ointment is an antibiotic, typically erythromycin. It is given prophylactically and protects the eyes from conjunctivitis and blindness that can be caused by chlamydia and gonorrhea as the newborn passes through the birth canal.
Make sure you check out the resources attached to this lesson and review the key points. Now, go out and be your best selves today. And, as always, happy nursing.
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OB (Maternal Newborn)
The OB (Obstetrics) or Maternal Newborn Course breaks down the most important things you need to know to care for a client before, during, and after pregnancy. Every aspect is broken down into manageable chunks to eliminate confusion and overwhelm. We help you understand what common risks and complications are, how the baby grows and develops, and how to assess both mom and baby after the baby is born. We even talk about medications that are commonly given during pregnancy.
