To minimize the risk of hemorrhagic disease after birth, what vitamin should a neonate be administered?

Vitamin K is administered to neonates to minimize the risk of hemorrhagic disease, specifically known as Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB). This is because newborns are born with low levels of Vitamin K, which is crucial for the synthesis of clotting factors necessary for proper blood coagulation.

The route of administration is typically an intramuscular injection shortly after birth, as this helps provide the newborn with the necessary levels of Vitamin K to prevent bleeding complications. VKDB may occur in the early days or weeks of life, and without appropriate intervention, it can lead to serious health issues including internal bleeding.

While other vitamins play important roles in health, they do not directly address the risk of hemorrhagic disease in neonates. For instance, folic acid is important for DNA synthesis and cell division, Vitamin C is crucial for immune function and collagen synthesis, and Vitamin D is essential for bone health and calcium absorption. However, none of these vitamins serve the specific function of preventing hemorrhagic disease right after birth, making Vitamin K the appropriate choice.