Final answer:
For a newborn receiving phototherapy for jaundice, the most important action for an LPN is to cover the newborn's eyes with a mask to protect them from the UV light used in the treatment.
The correct answer is option a) Cover the newborn's eyes with a mask.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks what the MOST important action is for an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) to take when a newborn is to receive phototherapy for physiological jaundice. The correct answer is: a) Cover the newborn's eyes with a mask. This is crucial as the newborn's eyes must be protected from the potentially damaging effects of the UV light used in phototherapy.
Phototherapy is an effective treatment for infantile jaundice, which is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. This treatment utilizes UV light that helps to break down bilirubin so it can be excreted from the body. Since UV light can alter molecules and potentially damage the eyes, it is essential that the newborn's eyes are covered during the treatment to prevent harm.
The correct answer is option a) Cover the newborn's eyes with a mask.