The nurse notes that a 36-hour-old newborn's serum bilirubin level has increased from 14 mg/dl to 16.6 mg/dl in an 8-hour period. What nursing intervention would be included in the plan of care for this newborn?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in serum bilirubin level of more than 5 mg/dl in an 8-hour period is significant and requires immediate intervention. Phototherapy is the initial treatment for hyperbilirubinemia in newborns. Continuing to observe is not sufficient in this case, and a blood exchange transfusion is typically reserved for severe cases. There is no indication to stop breastfeeding without further assessment and intervention.

The Nurse Notes That a 36-Hour-Old Newborn's Serum Bilirubin Level