Antibiotic ointment is instilled into the neonate’s eyes to prevent blindness and eye damage from conjunctivitis due to Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia, which the neonate may have acquired from the mother as he passed through the birth canal.

Treatment is legally required in all 50 states.

Erythromycin ointment 0.5% is the drug of choice.

Antibiotic ointment, usually single-dose ointment tube

Sterile gloves

Dry gauze pads

Obtain the prescribed ointment.

Explain the procedure to the parents if present, informing them that the neonate will probably cry and that eye irritation may occur.

Wash your hands and put on gloves.

Wipe the neonate’s face with dry gauze.