A nurse is assessing a newborn who is 4 hr old. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority to report to the provider?

Choice A rationale:

When a newborn is receiving phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia, it is essential to avoid using lotions or ointments on the skin. Phototherapy works by breaking down bilirubin in the skin, and any barriers like lotions or ointments can interfere with this process. The baby's skin needs to be exposed to the light to effectively reduce bilirubin levels.

Choice B rationale:

Dressing the newborn in lightweight clothing is a correct action during phototherapy. The baby should be undressed and placed under the phototherapy lights, with only a diaper on to maximize skin exposure to the light.

Choice C rationale:

Keeping the newborn supine throughout treatment is not a recommended action during phototherapy. To optimize skin exposure to the light, the baby should be placed in a prone position, with the back exposed to the light source.

Choice D rationale:

Measuring the newborn's temperature every 6 hours is essential, but it is not directly related to phototherapy. Temperature monitoring is a routine part of newborn care to assess for signs of infection or other health issues.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should not include the information about beginning Kegel exercises 6 to 7 weeks after delivery because Kegel exercises are pelvic floor exercises that help improve bladder control and should be started earlier, immediately after childbirth. Delaying the exercises for 6 to 7 weeks could result in weaker pelvic floor muscles and potentially exacerbate postpartum urinary issues.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should not include the information that the client doesn't need to use birth control if exclusively breastfeeding. While exclusive breastfeeding can provide some natural contraceptive effect, it is not a reliable method, and there is still a risk of pregnancy during the postpartum period. The nurse should advise the client to use appropriate birth control methods to prevent unintended pregnancies.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct answer. The nurse should include information about the client's breasts becoming firm and tender 3 to 5 days after delivery. This is a normal physiological response known as engorgement, which occurs as the breasts prepare for breastfeeding.

Choice D rationale:

The nurse should not inform the client that her bleeding will remain bright red for the next 6 to 8 weeks. While some postpartum bleeding is normal (known as lochia), the color and amount of bleeding change over time. Initially, it is bright red and gradually transitions to a lighter color over the following weeks.