Question

Phototherapy is ordered for a preterm neonate with hyperbilirubinemia. Which nursing intervention is appropriate to reduce the potentially harmful side effect of the phototherapy?

A. Covering the trunk to prevent hypothermia
B. Using shields on the eyes to protect them from the light
C. Massaging vitamin E oil on the skin to minimize drying
D. Turning after each feeding to reduce exposure of each surface area

Answer 1

The appropriate nursing intervention to reduce the side effects of phototherapy in a preterm neonate with hyperbilirubinemia is to use shields on the eyes for protection from the phototherapy light.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a preterm neonate is undergoing phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia, an appropriate nursing intervention to reduce potentially harmful side effects is using shields on the eyes to protect them from the light. Exposing a newborn to UV light helps to break down bilirubin quickly, aiding in the management of jaundice. It is important to cover the neonate's eyes with protective shields because, while the UV light is beneficial in reducing bilirubin levels, it can be harmful to the eyes. Additional measures such as covering the trunk to prevent hypothermia, massaging vitamin E oil to minimize skin drying, and turning the baby to reduce exposure of each surface area may also be enacted as supportive nursing interventions, excluding coverage of the skin areas where phototherapy must reach.