Video Library
Hyperbilirubinemia
Hyperbilirubinemia ( 4 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a newborn with hyperbilirubinemia who is receiving phototherapy.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Because applying lotion to the newborn’s skin before phototherapy can interfere with the light penetration and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
Because removing the newborn from phototherapy every 4 hours can interrupt the continuous exposure to the light and delay the reduction of bilirubin levels.
This is because phototherapy exposes the newborn to a special blue-to-green light that lowers the serum bilirubin level by transforming it into water-soluble isomers that can be eliminated without liver conjugation. However, this light can also damage the newborn’s eyes and cause retinal injury or blindness, so it is important to protect them with a mask.
Placing the newborn on a radiant warmer during phototherapy can increase the risk of dehydration, hyperthermia, and skin burns. The newborn should be monitored for temperature and fluid balance during phototherapy and kept in a crib or bassinet with a blanket.
This is because phototherapy exposes the newborn to a special blue-to-green light that lowers the serum bilirubin level by transforming it into water-soluble isomers that can be eliminated without liver conjugation. However, this light can also damage the newborn’s eyes and cause retinal injury or blindness, so it is important to protect them with a mask.
Choice A is wrong because applying lotion to the newborn’s skin before phototherapy can interfere with the light penetration and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
It can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Choice B is wrong because removing the newborn from phototherapy every 4 hours can interrupt the continuous exposure to the light and delay the reduction of bilirubin levels.
The newborn should only be removed from phototherapy for feeding, diaper changes, and physical examination.
Choice D is wrong because placing the newborn on a radiant warmer during phototherapy can increase the risk of dehydration, hyperthermia, and skin burns.
The newborn should be monitored for temperature and fluid balance during phototherapy and kept in a crib or bassinet with a blanket.