Questions: Question 4 of 5 A nurse caring for newborns knows that this population is at risk for hyperbilirubinemia. What causes a newborn to be at a higher risk for developing hyperbilirubinemia? Select all that apply. Prematurity Mother has diabetes History of sickle cell disease Feeding shortly after delivery Birth trauma Next

The answer includes the following options:

• Prematurity
• Mother has diabetes
• History of sickle cell disease
• Birth trauma

Explanation for each option:

1. Prematurity: Correct. Premature infants have immature liver function, which can lead to a decreased ability to process and excrete bilirubin, increasing the risk of hyperbilirubinemia.

2. Mother has diabetes: Correct. Infants born to mothers with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing hyperbilirubinemia due to potential complications such as macrosomia and polycythemia, which can increase bilirubin production.

3. History of sickle cell disease: Correct. A family history of sickle cell disease can increase the risk of hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), leading to higher bilirubin levels.

4. Feeding shortly after delivery: Incorrect. Early feeding is generally encouraged as it helps to promote bowel movements, which can help excrete bilirubin from the body and reduce the risk of hyperbilirubinemia.

5. Birth trauma: Correct. Birth trauma can lead to bruising and hematomas, which can increase the breakdown of red blood cells and subsequently raise bilirubin levels.

Summary: Newborns are at a higher risk for developing hyperbilirubinemia due to factors such as prematurity, maternal diabetes, a history of sickle cell disease, and birth trauma. Early feeding shortly after delivery is not a risk factor and can actually help reduce the risk.