A nurse is planning care for a full-term newborn who is receiving phototherapy. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Keep the newborn supine throughout treatment.
Dress the newborn in lightweight clothing.
Measure the newborn's temperature every 8 hr.
Avoid using lotion or ointment on the newborn's skin.
The Correct Answer is D
A. It is essential to regularly reposition the newborn (every 2-3 hours) to ensure even exposure to the phototherapy light and to prevent pressure sores. Keeping the newborn supine throughout the treatment is not recommended.
B. The newborn should be undressed, except for a diaper, during phototherapy to maximize skin exposure to the light. Lightweight clothing can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
C. Temperature monitoring should be more frequent than every 8 hours. Phototherapy can cause fluctuations in the newborn's temperature, including overheating or hypothermia, so checking every 2-4 hours is generally recommended.
D. Lotions or ointments should not be applied to the newborn's skin during phototherapy because they can absorb heat, potentially leading to burns or skin irritation. Phototherapy can dry out the skin, but moisturizing treatments should be avoided during the therapy itself.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse manager should instruct newly hired nurses to place newborn bassinets at least 3 feet apart to reduce the risk of infection transmission in the nursery. Allowing parents to enter the nursery while wearing a mask is not a recommended infection control procedure. Placing the newborn's foot on a sterile field during a heel stick is a standard precaution to reduce the risk of infection. Airborne precautions are not required in a newborn nursery unless the infant has a suspected airborne infectious disease
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A.Cranial bone overlap (molding) is common after vaginal delivery due to compression during birth. It typically resolves within a few days and does not require urgent intervention.
B.These are called milia, which are harmless and expected in newborns. They resolve spontaneously without treatment.
C.This is known as acrocyanosis, a normal finding in newborns during the first 24–48 hours of life due to immature circulation. It is not a cause for concern unless central cyanosis is present (e.g., lips or mucous membranes are blue).
D.Abnormal positioning of the ears (e.g., low-set or forward and lateral) can be a sign of congenital anomalies, particularly renal abnormalities or chromosomal syndromes such as Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) or Trisomy 18. Because these may indicate serious underlying systemic conditions, the nurse must report this finding promptly to initiate further evaluation and possibly diagnostic testing (e.g., renal ultrasound or genetic consultation).
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