HealthPartners - Preparing for childbirth

JAUNDICE Jaundice is common in newborns, giving their skin and the whites of their eyes a yellow color. A buildup of a substance called bilirubin in the baby’s blood and skin commonly causes jaundice. Before your baby is discharged or if there are any signs of jaundice, the baby’s bilirubin level may be tested in one of two ways: • By light meter – A small device called a bilirubinometer will shine light on your baby’s skin, then calculate the bilirubin level by analyzing how the light is reflected or absorbed by the skin. • By blood test – After taking a sample of your baby’s blood from their heel, the lab will measure the level of bilirubin in the baby’s blood serum. If the bilirubin level appears high after only light meter testing, a blood test may also be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Most cases of jaundice will go away without medical treatment. Your baby’s health care provider will check the bilirubin level and treat it if it is too high. Left untreated, high levels of bilirubin can cause serious health complications. It’s important to take jaundice seriously and follow your provider’s instructions for appointments and recommended care.

YOUR NEW BABY

HEARING SCREENING Of every 1,000 babies born, about 1 to 3 will have serious hearing loss. Experts recommend that all newborns have their hearing tested, and screening is now standard practice before leaving the hospital or birth center. If hearing loss is not found early in a baby’s life, their brain’s hearing center will not be stimulated. This can delay speech and other development. About the test • Painless; takes about 10 minutes while your baby is sleeping • 2 types: otoacoustic emission (OAE) and auditory brainstem response (ABR) • Done in the hospital using a tiny earphone, microphone, or both PULSE OXIMETRY

Treatment for Jaundice There are two types of treatment for jaundice. Phototherapy treatment involves placing your baby under a special light, wearing only a diaper and eye protection.

SCREENING FOR HEART DISEASE Pulse oximetry is a simple, painless test used to measure

Another treatment option is to place a fiberoptic blanket under the baby. The light and blanket may be used together. After treatment, your baby’s provider will do another blood test to check that the treatment is working. Make sure your baby is getting enough to eat. Babies get rid of excess bilirubin through their stools. Breastfeed your baby at least 8 or more times a day for the first few days. This will help you make enough milk for the baby and will also help keep their bilirubin level down.

how much oxygen is in your baby’s blood. It can help identify certain congenital heart diseases in newborns. Screening can be done when the baby is more than 24 hours old. About the test • Sensors are placed on the baby’s hand and foot • Sensors consist of a sticky strip and small red light or probe • Sensors measure the baby’s oxygen level and pulse rate • Takes a few minutes; done while baby is still, quiet, and warm

Chapter 7: Your New Baby

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