Which of the following vaccine is given at birth?

Appeared in: JIPMER Pondicherry NO - 2022

Explanation

The Hepatitis B vaccine is a key component of the at-birth immunization protocol under India's National Immunization Schedule (NIS).
It is administered as a 'birth dose', preferably within the first 24 hours of life.
The primary purpose of the birth dose is to prevent perinatal (vertical) transmission of the Hepatitis B virus from mother to child.
Along with the BCG and Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV-0), it forms the trio of vaccines given to newborns before hospital discharge.

Option B: The Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) is not administered at birth. Its primary series begins later in infancy.
Option C: The MMR vaccine is given much later than birth because maternal antibodies can interfere with the vaccine's effectiveness if given too early.
Option D: The Rotavirus vaccine is an oral vaccine that is not part of the at-birth schedule.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Knowledge of the National Immunization Schedule for infants as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's primary role is to ensure strict adherence to the immunization schedule to protect infants from vaccine-preventable diseases, starting from the crucial birth doses.
Educating parents on the importance of the Hepatitis B birth dose is a critical nursing responsibility, as it prevents chronic liver disease and cancer in later life.
Nurses must maintain the vaccine cold chain (2°C to 8°C) to ensure the efficacy of the Hepatitis B vaccine.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'given at birth'. This directs you to a specific point in the infant immunization timeline.
Second, recall the standard National Immunization Schedule (NIS) for newborns.
Third, systematically evaluate each option against this schedule. Think about which vaccines are administered immediately after birth versus those given at the 6-week or later check-ups.
Recall that Hepatitis B has a specific 'birth dose' to prevent vertical transmission. PCV, MMR, and Rotavirus are all administered weeks or months after birth.
Based on this recall, select the vaccine that is part of the immediate newborn care protocol.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Comprehensive Textbook of Community Health NursingShyamala D part 1 (pp 26-389 of 389) p. 37-39

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 198-200

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 1613-1615

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