A nurse is assisting in the care of a newborn who is scheduled for a heel stick for genetic screening.
Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates correct pain relief techniques for newborns?

Choice A rationale

Rhythmic respirations indicate the client is using controlled breathing techniques to manage labor pain, which demonstrates effective coping. This method helps maintain oxygen levels and can reduce the perception of pain through focused breathing.

Choice B rationale

Crying during labor may indicate emotional distress or pain, suggesting the client might be struggling to cope effectively with labor. While it is a natural response, it is not typically associated with controlled coping mechanisms.

Choice C rationale

Lack of concentration can indicate that the client is overwhelmed by pain or anxiety, which may hinder her ability to use coping strategies effectively. It suggests she might be struggling to manage her labor experience.

Choice D rationale

Perspiration is a common physiological response to the exertion and stress of labor, but it does not specifically indicate how well the client is coping with labor pain or stress. It is a normal part of the labor process but not a clear sign of effective coping.

Choice A rationale

An increase in serum bilirubin levels indicates worsening hyperbilirubinemia rather than improvement. Effective phototherapy should result in a decrease in bilirubin levels as it helps break down bilirubin into a form that can be excreted.

Choice B rationale

Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are not directly affected by phototherapy. These values are more related to red blood cell count and do not indicate the effectiveness of phototherapy for treating hyperbilirubinemia.

Choice C rationale

A decrease in transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) levels from 6 hours ago indicates effective phototherapy. Phototherapy reduces bilirubin levels in the blood by converting it to a water-soluble form that can be eliminated from the body.

Choice D rationale

Jaundice typically moves from the head to the lower body as bilirubin levels decrease. Movement from chest to groin level without a corresponding decrease in bilirubin levels does not necessarily indicate effective phototherapy. .