Foundations and Adult Health Nursing Test Bank - Care of the High-Risk Mother, Newborn, and Family with Special Needs Cooper: Foundations and Adult Health Nursing, 9th Edition Related

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A nursery nurse is implementing phototherapy for a jaundiced infant. What is the purpose of the phototherapy?

  • A. It is initiated when the bilirubin level reaches 5 mg/dL.
  • B. It converts bilirubin to a water-soluble form to be excreted in the urine.
  • C. It changes bilirubin to a bile salt to be excreted through the bowel.
  • D. It requires eye patches to remain in place 24 hours a day.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Phototherapy converts the bilirubin into a water-soluble form to be excreted by the kidneys. It is initiated when the bilirubin level reaches 12 to 15 mg/dL. The eye patches are worn during therapy, but removed for feeding, bathing, and socialization.