In addition to the prior outlined 4 options of informed consent, there are other options to consider when it comes to the Vitamin K shot specifically.
- You can request a Vitamin K shot that is preservative-free.
- You can request the Oral version
Be sure to request weeks ahead whichever version you may want to have on hand because most hospitals and facilities will only stock one type. The oral version requires at least 3 doses, one at birth, next between 4 and 6 days, and the next between 4 and 6 weeks. The oral administration of Vitamin K has been shown to be as effective as the intramuscular route in the prevention of the hemorrhagic disease of the newborn as long as the correct doses and schedule are followed. The primary disadvantage of the oral method is the reliance on parental compliance.
Advantages of the oral version include:
- Elimination of the pain of the injection, which has the potential to cause psycho-emotional damage and drama to a newborn
- There is no danger of overdosing or a bad reaction since Oral Vitamin K is non-toxic.
Birth Plan Decision
Vitamin K
Consent to the traditional Vitamin K shot, the preservative-free version, the oral version, or refuse.
Preservative-Free &/or Oral: Please check with your practitioner & place of birth to ensure these options are available.
