Which action is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to implement to prevent bleeding in the neonate during the first hour after birth?

A. Replace the umbilical cord clamp close to the infant's body: Cord clamping helps prevent umbilical bleeding, but does not address the systemic clotting deficiency common in newborns. B. Provide the first oral fluids using formula: Feeding is important but does not prevent bleeding. C. Administer phytonadione intramuscularly: Vitamin K (phytonadione) is given shortly after birth to prevent hemorrhagic disease of the newborn, as neonates have immature gut flora and cannot synthesize enough vitamin K for clotting. D. Use the axillary method to obtain core body temperature: Temperature monitoring is important but unrelated to bleeding prevention.