What I find interesting about the eye drops is that they are used even 
if the baby is born via c-section.  If the baby doesn't pass through the 
birth canal, then there is no risk of infection...

Joylyn

Laura Hart, RN, BSN, IBCLC wrote:

> 
>In a message dated 11/9/2005 10:04:39 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
>[log in to unmask] writes:
>
>Merewyn  Janson writes "We don't put drops in baby's eyes.  Why is  this
>done?"
>
>
>Sheena answered: The drops or ointment is an  antibiotic, its a preventative 
>against a
>possible eye infection from baby  passing through the birth canal.  I believe
>it is to prevent a  gonorrheal infection to the eyes, which can cause some
>bad problems.   Someone correct me if I'm wrong.
>
>
>
>Individual states have passed a law that requires health care  personnel to 
>give the ointment after birth.  I believe you are  correct - the reason that 
>the law was passed was to prevent infection that  can cause blindness. If 
>individual parents do not want it done they must sign a  waver. We also have laws 
>that require newborns to have hearing tests, genetic  disease screening & 
>parents must use approved car seats for infants  & children.
> 
>Laura Hart
>Winter Park, Florida  USA
>
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