Knowledge and Attitude among Doctors and pharmacists towards Use of Prophylactic Vitamin K in Neonates

Abstract

Neonates are vulnerable to fatal vitamin K-deficient hemorrhage. This is easily avoidable
with prophylactic vitamin K after delivery. Most vitamin K-deficiency bleeding occurs in
children whose parents refuse infant vitamin K. Information from health professionals is one
aspect that influences parental decision-making. This study looked at the attitudes and views
of key healthcare professionals concerning infant vitamin K .
Methods :
A descriptive cross-sectional study including sixty-six randomly chosen pharmacists and 41
doctors was carried out in March and April of 2023. The availability and adherence to the
Use of Prophylactic Vitamin K in Neonates guidelines, as well as parent counseling, were
the focus of an interview-based questionnaire used to gather data. Tables were created after
data analysis .
Results :
All doctors and 76% of pharmacists agreed with the current Health vitamin K suggestion,
according to the poll results. All doctors agree that all babies should be given vitamin K, yet
just 55% of pharmacists agree. There were significant differences amongst professions in
terms of vitamin K education and risk.
Conclusion :
This study is being conducted to investigate pharmacists' and doctors' attitudes and
perceptions of vitamin K prophylaxis in newborns. There are significant differences in
attitude, and some pharmacists lack confidence in this intervention. It is unclear how this
would affect family education. A better knowledge of this phenomenon, as well as enhanced
education and communication with professionals and families, is essential.