A nurse is developing an educational program about hemolytic disease in newborns for a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following genetic information should the nurse include in the program as a cause of hemolytic disease?

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.

The correct answer is c. Cleanse the newborn immediately after delivery. This is because cleansing the newborn can reduce the risk of HIV transmission through exposure to maternal blood or fluids. The other options are not appropriate for the following reasons:

a. Administer IV antibiotics to the newborn. This is not necessary unless the newborn has signs of infection or sepsis. Antibiotics do not prevent or treat HIV infection.
b. Encourage the mother to breastfeed her newborn. This is contraindicated for mothers with HIV, as breastfeeding can transmit the virus to the infant. Mothers with HIV should avoid breastfeeding and use formula or donor milk instead.
d. Initiate contact precautions for the newborn. This is not required for newborns exposed to HIV, as HIV is not transmitted by casual contact. Standard precautions are sufficient to prevent the spread of HIV and other bloodborne pathogens.