Why was the newborn given a vitamin K injection according to the nurse?

The administration of a vitamin K injection to a newborn is primarily to facilitate the production of clotting factors, which are vital for the blood coagulation process. Newborns typically have low levels of vitamin K due to limited transplacental transfer during pregnancy and minimal dietary intake, as breast milk contains only a small amount of vitamin K. This deficiency can lead to serious bleeding disorders, such as Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB), particularly in the first weeks of life.

Therefore, providing a vitamin K injection ensures that the newborn's body can synthesize the necessary clotting factors, reducing the risk of hemorrhage. This preventive measure is standard practice to promote the health and safety of newborns, addressing a critical aspect of their early life care and ensuring proper blood clotting capabilities.