Baby Ravi is undergoing phototherapy treatment for hyperbilirubinemia. Which parts of his body should be covered to prevent tissue damage ?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

KGMU Nursing Officer 2023 Memory-Based Previous Year Paper

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Eyes and Genitalia

Rationale:

Phototherapy is a treatment commonly used for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, which occurs due to elevated bilirubin levels in the blood. It helps in breaking down excess bilirubin in the skin using light exposure, preventing complications like kernicterus (brain damage).
During phototherapy, it is crucial to protect sensitive areas of the baby's body from potential damage caused by prolonged light exposure. The eyes are particularly vulnerable, as phototherapy light can harm the retina. Therefore, the baby's eyes must be covered with protective patches or shields.
The genital area is another sensitive region that must be covered to avoid tissue irritation or damage during phototherapy. Prolonged exposure to light can lead to skin irritation or damage in this area.
Covering these regions ensures that the phototherapy treatment is both effective and safe for the newborn.

Explanation of Other Options:

Eyes and Abdomen

Rationale: While the eyes need protection during phototherapy, the abdomen does not require covering as it is not particularly vulnerable to tissue damage from light exposure. Covering the abdomen unnecessarily could reduce the effectiveness of the treatment by limiting light exposure to areas where bilirubin is present.

Eyes and Extremities

Rationale: The extremities (arms and legs) do not require covering during phototherapy. Exposing these areas to light is essential for effective treatment, as bilirubin is distributed throughout the skin. Covering the extremities would hinder the therapeutic process.

Genital area and Abdomen

Rationale: While the genital area does require protection, the abdomen does not need covering during phototherapy. Covering the abdomen would interfere with the light's ability to break down bilirubin in that region, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.

Conclusion:

The correct approach during phototherapy is to cover the baby's eyes and genital area to prevent tissue damage while allowing maximum light exposure to other parts of the body to effectively reduce bilirubin levels. This ensures the treatment is both safe and effective.