Final answer:
The correct action for the nurse is to ensure the newborn wears a diaper during phototherapy. Glucose water, head coverings, and lotion are not appropriate or necessary during phototherapy treatments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the care of a 1-day-old newborn with jaundice who is receiving phototherapy. Among the options provided, the correct action for the nurse to take is to ensure that the newborn wears a diaper (Option C). This is because it is important for meconium to be cleared from the intestines and for bilirubin to be kept low in the circulation. The presence of a diaper allows for the normal excretion and close monitoring of the newborn's stool, which can indicate the effectiveness of phototherapy in lowering bilirubin levels. Additionally, a diaper protects the sensitive skin of newborns from the UV light used in phototherapy.
Option A is incorrect because glucose water is not routinely given to newborns, and all nutritional needs should be met through breast milk or formula. Option B is also incorrect because there is no need to keep the infant's head covered with a cap during phototherapy. Option D is inappropriate as applying lotion can interfere with the effectiveness of phototherapy and can also cause the newborn's skin to overheat.
Newborns produce very dilute urine due to the immaturity of their kidneys, and proper hydration is crucial, hence the importance of sufficient fluid intake through breastfeeding or formula feeding.