Name of the Procedure:

Vitamin K Injection (Phytonadione Injection)

Summary

Vitamin K injection is a medical procedure where a dose of Vitamin K is administered intramuscularly or intravenously to help blood clot normally and prevent excessive bleeding.

Purpose

Vitamin K injections are used to:

• Prevent or treat Vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB)
• Reverse the effects of blood-thinning medications (like warfarin)
• Manage certain bleeding disorders

Indications

• Newborns to prevent VKDB
• Patients with Vitamin K deficiency
• Individuals on anticoagulant medication experiencing bleeding
• Patients with liver disease affecting Vitamin K absorption

Preparation

• Newborns typically receive the injection shortly after birth without special preparation.
• Adults may need to inform their healthcare provider of any medications they are taking.
• No fasting or special diagnostic tests are usually required.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider cleans the injection site with an antiseptic.
2. Using a sterile needle and syringe, the provider draws the correct dose of Vitamin K.
3. The injection is administered into the muscle (intramuscular) or vein (intravenous).
4. The site may be covered with a small bandage.

Duration

The injection itself takes only a few minutes.

Setting

• Hospital (particularly for newborns)
• Outpatient clinic
• Doctor's office

Personnel

• Nurses
• Physicians or pediatricians for newborns

Risks and Complications

• Pain or swelling at the injection site
• Allergic reactions (rare)
• Flushing, dizziness, or difficulty breathing (very rare)

Benefits

• Rapid correction of Vitamin K deficiency
• Prevention of serious bleeding in newborns and patients with deficiency
• Effective management of anticoagulant medication overdose

Recovery

• Minimal post-procedure care; monitor injection site for redness or swelling.
• For newborns, routine newborn care follows the injection.
• Adults might need follow-up blood tests to ensure bleeding has stopped or Vitamin K levels are adequate.

Alternatives

• Oral Vitamin K supplements (less immediate effect)
• Dietary modifications to increase Vitamin K intake
• Continued monitoring without immediate intervention (depends on severity)

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel a brief sting or pinch during the injection.
• Mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two.
• Typically no significant pain following the procedure; over-the-counter pain relief can be used if needed.