A nurse is caring for a 1-week-old newborn who has hyperbilirubinemia and is being treated with phototherapy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The correct answer is Choice C.Choice A rationaleChecking the newborn’s eyes every 8 hours is not necessary for the management of hyperbilirubinemia or phototherapy. The primary concern during phototherapy is monitoring the newborn’s temperature and hydration status.Choice B rationalePlacing mittens on the newborn’s hands is unrelated to the management of hyperbilirubinemia or phototherapy. Mittens are typically used to prevent the newborn from scratching themselves.Choice C rationaleMonitoring the newborn’s temperature every 2 hours is essential during phototherapy because infants are at risk of hypothermia due to increased heat loss from the lights. This helps ensure the newborn maintains a stable body temperature.Choice D rationaleApplying lotion to the newborn’s skin is not recommended during phototherapy as it can interfere with the effectiveness of the lights. The lotion can act as a barrier, reducing the amount of light that reaches the skin.