What gauge needle should the LPN use to administer phytonadione to an infant?

The appropriate choice for administering phytonadione to an infant is a 25-gauge needle. This selection is crucial because a smaller gauge needle, such as a 25-gauge, is less invasive and more suitable for the delicate veins of infants. Infants typically have smaller blood vessels and thinner skin, so a finer needle minimizes trauma and discomfort during the injection.

Administering medications like phytonadione, which is often given to prevent or treat vitamin K deficiency in newborns, requires a careful approach to ensure the safety and comfort of the patient. A larger gauge needle, such as 20-gauge or 22-gauge, risks causing more pain or potential complications such as bruising or infiltration due to the increased size. The use of a 25-gauge needle strikes an appropriate balance, allowing for effective administration while also considering the infant’s anatomy and comfort.