What is the function of vitamin K in newborns?

The function of vitamin K in newborns is primarily related to blood clotting. Newborns are at an increased risk for bleeding, particularly because they are born with low levels of vitamin K due to limited placental transfer during pregnancy. Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of certain proteins that are required for blood coagulation. Therefore, administering vitamin K shortly after birth helps to prevent vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB), a serious condition that can lead to uncontrolled bleeding in infants. This preventive measure is crucial in the neonatal period, especially since newborns have immature liver function, which further impacts their ability to clot blood effectively.

While the other options focus on various functions, such as digestion, bone development, and sleep patterns, they do not pertain to the critical role that vitamin K plays in coagulation. Hence, the correct answer highlights the importance of vitamin K in ensuring newborns can adequately produce the necessary factors for blood clotting, thus safeguarding against potential hemorrhagic complications.