Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

What is the appropriate vaccination schedule for a neonate whose mother is HBsAg positive?

1. at birth only

2. at birth, 1 month, and 6 months of age

3. at 2, 4, and 6 months of age

4. only recommended after one year

The correct answer is: at birth, 1 month, and 6 months of age

For a neonate whose mother is HBsAg positive, the correct vaccination schedule involves administering the hepatitis B vaccine at birth, followed by doses at 1 month and 6 months of age. This schedule is critical in providing immediate protection to the infant from hepatitis B infection, which can be transmitted from the mother during birth. Administering the first dose at birth is particularly vital because it maximizes the chances of seroconversion and reduces the risk of the infant becoming a chronic carrier of the virus. The subsequent doses at 1 and 6 months ensure that the child develops adequate immunity against hepatitis B. This approach also aligns with recommendations from health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which underscore the importance of early vaccination, especially in high-risk situations where the mother is known to be infected. This comprehensive vaccination schedule effectively protects the child throughout their early life.