Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C. She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national television programs, discussing issues related to children's health. Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.

Q: The hospital I am delivering at does not have vitamin K oral drops. How can I get some so the hospital can give them to my child?

A: Most hospitals in the United States do not administer oral vitamin K drops to newborns. According to the Perinatal Care Guidelines published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the oral administration of this vitamin has not been shown to be as effective as that which is by injection. Therefore, as a measure to prevent hemorrhagic (bleeding) disorders during the critical newborn period, hospital nurseries administer a single injection of water-soluble vitamin K to the baby, usually within the first hour after birth. If you have other questions about this procedure, I urge you to discuss them with your obstetrician or during a pre-delivery visit to your birthing hospital.