Question

The nurse provides home care instructions to the mother of a newborn requiring phototherapy. Which instructions does the nurse provide? Select all that apply.

  

Check the infant's axillary temperature before every feeding.

   

Count and record the infant's wet diapers and stools.

   

Close the infant's eyes and place patches over the eyes before positioning the infant under the lights.

   

Ensure the infant receives phototherapy 24 hours per day.

   

Feed the infant every 2 to 3 hours.

   

Dress the infant in a diaper to expose as much skin as possible to the lights.

Answer 1

• Close the infant's eyes and place patches over the eyes before positioning the infant under the lights.

The lights can harm baby's vision.

• Feed the infant every 2 to 3 hours.

Helps to reduce the level of jaundice

•    Dress the infant in a diaper to expose as much skin as possible to the lights.

Exposing the skin is important so that the maximum area will receive the light but the genital area should be covered to prevent adverse effects.

option a is incorrect as skin temperature while on phototherapy is to be taken every one hour but not after every feeding.

option b is incorrect as it is not recommended during phototherapy.

option d is incorrect as phototherapy is given according to the age and hemolysis confirmation.