This procedure is required by law in all states as prophylaxis against gonorrhea.

The medications used are as follows:

a. Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment.

This has become the drug of choice and is received in a sterile syringe from the pharmacy. It is injected into each eye from the inner to outer canthus immediately after birth (see figure 8-10). It does not appear to cause much eye irritation.

b. 1% Silver Nitrate Solution.

Two drops are applied in each eye in the conjunctival sac, not the cornea. The infant eyes may or may not be irrigated after instillation, depending on local policy. The infant may get profuse discharge and chemical conjunctivitis for a few days with no residual damage. One percent silver nitrate solution is no longer recommended for use.