Which statement describes the purpose of providing eye prophylaxis to all newborns?

• A. It is given to protect all newborns regardless of maternal infection
• B. It is given only if the mother has an infection
• C. It is optional
• D. It treats conjunctivitis after birth

Answer: (A)

Eye prophylaxis is a preventive measure aimed at stopping ophthalmia neonatorum, a serious eye infection that can occur when newborns are exposed to bacteria like Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis during birth. Giving prophylaxis to every newborn ensures protection even if the mother has no known infection or is unknowingly carrying bacteria. Since some infections may be asymptomatic or not detected before delivery, universal prophylaxis provides a safety net for all babies right after birth. It’s a preventive step, not a treatment for conjunctivitis that has already developed, and it’s not optional in standard care.