Phototherapy is ordered for a newborn with physiologic jaundice. The nurse caring for the infant should:
A. Place the baby on enteric isolation
B. Apply lotion, or oil on the baby’s skin to prevent drying
C. Wear a gown, gloves, and a mask while caring for the infant
D. Encourage the mother to continue breastfeeding
Correct Answer: D. Encourage the mother to continue breastfeeding
Option D: Breastfeeding will improve the nutrition of the newborn and will help in eliminating excess bilirubin (the main cause of physiological jaundice).
Option B: The use of lotion and oils while on phototherapy is not advisable since it may cause skin burn.
Options A and C: Physiologic jaundice is not associated with infection.