A newborn tests positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen. Which of the following should the nurse administer?

Choice A rationale
While the hepatitis B vaccine is an important part of preventing hepatitis B infection, it is not typically given on a monthly basis until the newborn tests negative for the hepatitis B surface antigen. Instead, the vaccine is usually given in a series of three to four doses over a six-month period.
Choice B rationale
For newborns who test positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen, the current recommendation is to administer both the hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and the
 

hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth. The HBIG provides immediate, short-term protection against the virus, while the vaccine stimulates the newborn’s immune system to provide long-term protection.
Choice C rationale
While the hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and the hepatitis B vaccine are both important for preventing hepatitis B infection in newborns, they are not typically administered in the manner described in this choice. The HBIG is usually given once, within 12 hours of birth, while the vaccine is given in a series of three to four doses over a six-month period.
Choice D rationale
The hepatitis B vaccine is typically given within 24 hours of birth, but it is not followed by doses of the hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) every 12 hours for three days. Instead, a single dose of HBIG is usually given within 12 hours of birth, along with the first dose of the vaccine.