A blood sample for measurement of bilirubin is required from a newborn receiving phototherapy. In what environment should this blood sample be drawn?
A) While phototherapy lights are turned off
B) While newborn remains under phototherapy lights
C) When newborn is covered with a blanket
D) When newborn has been off phototherapy for 30 to 60 minutes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When blood is drawn, phototherapy lights are turned off, and the blood is transported in a covered tube to avoid a false reading as a result of bilirubin destruction in the test tube. The lights will cause a degradation of the bilirubin in the sample, resulting in a falsely lowered result. The newborn does not need to be covered with a blanket. The phototherapy lights must be off. There is no reason to delay obtaining the blood sample. It can be drawn as soon as the lights are turned off.

A Blood Sample for Measurement of Bilirubin Is Required from a Newborn