Practice Question
The parents of a 2-day-old newborn with jaundice express concern about their baby being placed under a phototherapy light. The mother asks, "Why does my baby need to be under this light, and is it safe?" Which response by the nurse is most appropriate to address the parents' concerns?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
The light breaks down bilirubin in the skin so the body can eliminate it safely."
Rationale:
💎 Phototherapy is the primary treatment for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, a condition caused by excess unconjugated bilirubin in the blood. The light converts bilirubin in the skin into water-soluble isomers (lumirubin) through a process called photo-oxidation.
💎 These transformed bilirubin molecules can then be excreted through urine and stool without needing further metabolism by the immature newborn liver.
💎 The therapy is safe and effective when used correctly, with nursing precautions such as eye protection, temperature monitoring, hydration, and frequent repositioning to maximize skin exposure.
💎 The goal is to prevent bilirubin encephalopathy (kernicterus) and promote the baby’s recovery without invasive treatment.
💎 Nurses should reassure parents that phototherapy is a common and noninvasive method that significantly reduces bilirubin levels and is carefully monitored to ensure safety.
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This question is from Custom N105 Cumulative Final CAD July 2025 which contains 50 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN Custom Exam(s)
- Answer Choices: 4