Valmoja, 2015

What to Expect When Your

Baby Has Jaundice
Why does my baby have
jaundice?
Jaundice, is a common
condition in newborns where there
is an elevated amount of bilirubin.
Bilirubin is produced by the
breakdown of red blood cells, and
should normally pass through the
liver to break down into bile.
However, bilirubin levels increases
faster than the liver can break it
down which will result in a
yellowish tint in babys skin, eyes,
and mucous membranes. It is very
important for baby to be
diagnosed and treated early, for
this condition can lead to
further complications and

Treatments for Jaundice

Phototherapy, also known as
under the lights is the use of
light treatment to eliminate

phototherapy lights are off.

bilirubin from babys blood.

What to expect when baby is

under phototherapy?
Baby will have an eye mask
to protect their eyes from the
light.
Avoid applying any lotions

or ointments to babys skin,

because it can absorb the heat
and cause burns.
Baby will be removed from

phototherapy every 4 hours, and

needs to be monitored for
dehydration.

even
death.

Monitor babys elimination,

baby should have 6-8 diapers a
day with atleast 3 stool diapers.
Make sure to hold and

interact with baby

when

Breastfeeding, also helps

promote bilirubin excretion. It is
important to feed your newborn
early and frequently.
Breastfeed baby every 2-3 hours,
and supplement with formula if
prescribed by your doctor.

Immediately let your nurse or

doctor know if you notice any of
these symptoms in baby:
babys skin is very yellow or
orange
baby appears to be very

decreased in energy, and has

poor response

Valmoja, 2015

has poor suck reflex

decrased or increased
muscle tone
increased sleepiness

high-pitched cry

fever

Any of these symptoms may

indicate that babys jaundice is
worsening and needs further
evaluation and treatment.
References:

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/57016/n
on-profit-group-focuses-on-savingbabies-lifesaving-neonatal-program2/bol-phototherapy-at-pgh
http://www.the-essential-infantresource-for-moms.com/BabyNursing.html
http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_
center/newborn_care/jaundice.html
Lowdermilk, Perry, Cashion.
Maternity Nursing. Mosby. (2014)
p.490-495
ATI Nursing Management. RN
Material Newborn Nursing.
(2013). p.334-336