Properly shielding the infant's eyes during phototherapy is necessary to prevent damage to which part of the body?

Shielding the infant's eyes during phototherapy is essential to prevent damage to the eyes. Phototherapy is commonly used to treat conditions such as neonatal jaundice by using light to break down bilirubin in the infant's bloodstream. However, the intensity of the light can be harmful to the delicate tissues of the eyes, which may lead to retinal damage or even more serious vision problems if not adequately protected.

The other options, while relevant to infant care, do not specifically pertain to the effects of phototherapy. The skin can experience irritation from prolonged exposure to light, and while it is important to guard the skin, it is not the primary concern during phototherapy. The liver is involved in the metabolism of bilirubin but does not require shielding from light. The brain is crucial for overall development, yet phototherapy has no direct harmful effect on it that necessitates shielding measures. Therefore, focusing on the eyes is critical for preventing potential visual impairment as a result of phototherapy.