A nurse is evaluating a preterm infant who has patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the condition is improving?

A normal blood glucose level for a healthy term newborn is between 30 and 60 mg/dL.This range is lower than that of older children and adults, because newborns are adapting to life outside the womb and their glucose levels rise gradually after birth.

Choice A is wrong because 10 and 30 mg/dL is too low for a newborn and indicates hypoglycemia, which can cause symptoms such as jitteriness, poor feeding, lethargy, and cyanosis.

Choice C is wrong because 60 and 90 mg/dL is too high for a newborn and indicates hyperglycemia, which can cause symptoms such as dehydration, poor feeding, irritability, and seizures.

Choice D is wrong because 90 and 120 mg/dL is also too high for a newborn and indicates hyperglycemia, which can have the same consequences as choice C.

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