For a newborn undergoing phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia, what should the nurse do to maximize skin exposure?

To maximize skin exposure during phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia in a newborn, changing the newborn's position every two hours is essential. This practice ensures that different areas of the skin are exposed to the phototherapy lights, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. Phototherapy works by allowing the light to penetrate the skin, aiding in the breakdown of bilirubin, a substance that can accumulate and cause jaundice if not adequately processed by the liver. By rotating the position of the newborn, the nurse can help facilitate this exposure, ensuring no areas are under-treated and that the bilirubin levels are addressed efficiently.

Other considerations, such as maintaining adequate feeding and hydration, are important for overall care, but these do not directly enhance skin exposure during the specific procedure of phototherapy. The application of a moisturizing lotion or discontinuing treatment based on changes in urine can be appropriate nursing actions for other aspects of care but are not related directly to the maximization of skin exposure during phototherapy. Feeding practices should ideally support hydration and caloric needs but do not influence the exposure to light therapy directly.