A newborn is diagnosed with retinopathy of prematurity. What should the nurse know about this diagnosis?

A) Blindness cannot be prevented.
B) No treatment is currently available.
C) Cryotherapy and laser therapy are effective treatments.
D) Long-term administration of oxygen will be necessary.

Cryotherapy and laser photocoagulation therapy can be used to minimize the vascular proliferation process that causes the retinal damage. Blindness can be prevented with early recognition and treatment. Cryotherapy and laser therapy can be used to stop the process. Surgical intervention can be used to repair a detached retina if necessary. Long-term administration of oxygen is one of the causes. Oxygen should be used judiciously.