Which statement about phototherapy is correct?

Prepare for the HESI Obstetrics and Maternity Assignment Exam. Utilize flashcards and practice multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which statement about phototherapy is correct?

Explanation:
Phototherapy targets high bilirubin levels in newborns. It uses blue light to convert unconjugated bilirubin, which is fat-soluble, into water-soluble forms that can be excreted in urine and stool without needing further liver processing. This directly lowers bilirubin levels and helps prevent bilirubin-related brain injury. Therefore, the statement that phototherapy is used to treat hyperbilirubinemia in newborns is correct. It is not used to treat hyperglycemia, hypothermia, or respiratory distress syndrome—the latter conditions are managed with metabolic control, warming measures, and respiratory support with surfactant as needed, respectively.

Phototherapy targets high bilirubin levels in newborns. It uses blue light to convert unconjugated bilirubin, which is fat-soluble, into water-soluble forms that can be excreted in urine and stool without needing further liver processing. This directly lowers bilirubin levels and helps prevent bilirubin-related brain injury. Therefore, the statement that phototherapy is used to treat hyperbilirubinemia in newborns is correct. It is not used to treat hyperglycemia, hypothermia, or respiratory distress syndrome—the latter conditions are managed with metabolic control, warming measures, and respiratory support with surfactant as needed, respectively.

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