A baby with hemolytic jaundice is being treated with fluorescent phototherapy.

To provide safe newborn care, which of the following actions should the nurse perform?

Loose, peeling skin without lanugo or vernix is a symptom of post-term infants who have intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).Post-term infants are born after 42 weeks of gestation and may have reduced placental function, resulting in less nutrition and oxygen for the fetus.This can cause them to have low birth weight, decreased subcutaneous fat and muscle mass, and dry skin.

Choice A is wrong because a large head in proportion to body size is not a sign of IUGR.It may indicate a congenital anomaly or a chromosomal disorder.

Choice C is wrong because increased subcutaneous fat and muscle mass are not signs of IUGR.They are signs of normal fetal growth and development.

Choice D is wrong because hypertonia and hyperreflexia are not signs of IUGR.They may indicate a neurological problem or a perinatal asphyxia (lack of oxygen during birth).

This statement indicates that the parent understands the signs of acute bilirubin encephalopathy, a serious complication of hyperbilirubinemia that can cause brain damage.

The parent should seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.

Choice B is wrong because “I will keep my baby fully clothed and wrapped in blankets.” This statement indicates that the parent does not understand the role of phototherapy in treating hyperbilirubinemia.Phototherapy is a treatment wherein a baby is placed under a special blue spectrum light to reduce the bilirubin levels.The baby should be exposed to as much light as possible, with only the eyes and genitals covered.

Choice C is wrong because “I will limit breastfeeding to no more than 10 minutes per session.” This statement indicates that the parent does not understand the importance of adequate hydration and nutrition in preventing and treating hyperbilirubinemia.Breastfeeding should not be interrupted or limited, as it provides fluids and calories that help the baby excrete bilirubin through urine and stool.The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding at least 8 to 12 times per day for newborns.

Choice D is wrong because “I will avoid exposing my baby to sunlight or artificial light.” This statement indicates that the parent does not understand the difference between natural and artificial light sources for phototherapy.Sunlight or artificial light from lamps or windows are not effective or safe for treating hyperbilirubinemia, as they do not emit the right wavelength or intensity of light, and they can cause overheating, dehydration, sunburn, or eye damage.

The baby should receive phot