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Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a vital nutrient and fat-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in blood clotting and bone health. Vitamin K prophylaxis is recommended for all newborns.
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Newborns are at a higher risk of developing vitamin K deficiency bleeding due to their limited ability to store vitamin K, and their ability to produce it is also limited. Breast milk contains low levels of vitamin K, which cannot meet the newborn's daily requirement.
Deficiency in vitamin K can lead to bleeding disorders and hemorrhage. In newborns, vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) is a serious condition that can lead to brain damage or even death. Therefore, vitamin K prophylaxis is recommended for all newborns.
The German recommendation for vitamin K prophylaxis is the administration of three doses of vitamin K drops, each containing 2 mg of vitamin K:
with the first dose given shortly after birth as part of the preventive medical check-up U1,
and the subsequent doses given during U2
and during the U3 examination.
The Dutch method involves the administration of one high dose of vitamin K immediately after birth, followed by daily low doses of vitamin K for several weeks.
It is important to note that other methods of vitamin K prophylaxis with lower doses or longer periods have proven to be less effective and are therefore not recommended. Although some parents may be concerned about giving their newborns additional medication, vitamin K prophylaxis is safe and effective in preventing VKDB.
By following the recommended guidelines, parents can help ensure their newborn's health and prevent serious complications.
Ressources:
S2k Guideline: https://gnpi.de/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/024-022l_S2k_Prophlaxe_Vitamin_K_Mangel_Neugeborene_2016-04.pdf