Facts

For Neonatal Jaundice

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What happens when a newborn baby has jaundice?
Physiologic jaundice is usually seen around the second or third day of life. The nurse or doctor caring for the baby will notice it and may request a blood test. Based on the results of the test and based on the general condition of the baby, the doctor will decide whether treatment should be started. If no treatment is felt necessary, the jaundice will usually decrease after a week and disappear within two weeks. If treatment is required, commonly a Bililight is used. This treatment is also known as phototherapy. Another name for the light is a Bilirubin Reduction Light.

What is a Bililight and why is it used?
A Bililight consists of a series of fluorescent lights that are placed over the baby's bed. The light helps the baby to get rid of bilirubin found just beneath the surface of the skin. It does this by changing the structure of the bilirubin, thereby making it easier to be excreted by the liver.

How is the Bililight used? How long is it used?
The Bililight is placed over the baby's bed, which will be either an Isolette or a radiant warmer bed. The baby is undressed to provide maximum skin exposure; the baby's skin will not darken or burn under this light. The baby may be under the light for several days. Laboratory tests and physical appearance guide the doctor in his evaluation of the baby's progress. The light will be discontinued at the earliest possible time.

How is the baby cared for during phototherapy?

Masks are placed over the baby's eyes to prevent exposure to the bright light. The baby's position is changed frequently to assure that all areas of the baby's skin are exposed to light and also to assure the baby's comfort. The baby may be fed under the light or may be taken out for the feedings, according to the doctor's instructions.

How do babies tolerate the light?
Each baby is an individual and, thus, unique in his response to this treatment. Some babies are very fussy because they miss being wrapped tightly in their blankets. Other babies sleep very contentedly.

While under the light, the baby usually has frequent and loose bowel movements. In some circumstances, his stools are greenish in color. This is temporary and should stop when treatment is discontinued.

The medical staff at the hospital knows that you are concerned about your baby and realizes that having your baby underneath the lights limits your contact with the baby. Remember, this treatment lasts only a few days. In no time at all, you and your baby will be ready to go home.

References

1. Mead Johnson & Company, 1993, Jaundice & Your Baby, 4-7.