MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

Newborn Jaundice

Jaundice is a common condition that occurs when a newborn baby has a high level of bilirubin in their blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that forms when red blood cells break down. A high level of bilirubin makes the baby's skin and the whites of their eyes appear yellow.

SCAN + PLAY

What to know • Jaundice usually resolves within several days on its own • Jaundice can be harmful if high bilirubin level is left untreated • Symptoms include increased sleepiness, poor feeding, fewer stools Treatment There are 2 types of phototherapy treatment for jaundice. During each treatment your baby will wear only a diaper and eye protection. Sometimes both treatments are done together. • During light therapy your baby is placed under distinctive blue-green lights • The other type of phototherapy involves placing your baby on top of a special blanket What to expect • Baby may have loose green stools after treatment (how bilirubin is removed) • Bilirubin level during phototherapy will be periodically monitored by taking a blood sample from baby’s heel • The length of phototherapy depends on baby’s condition • Treatment stops after bilirubin reaches safe level Your baby should stay under the phototherapy lights as much as possible until their bilirubin level drops. You can help by keeping your baby’s eyes covered and breastfeeding often to help pass stool and excess bilirubin from your baby’s body.

Signs & Symptoms

Call your baby’s health care provider immediately if your baby: • Appears very yellow • Is hard to wake up for feedings • Is very fussy • Doesn’t feed 8 or more times in 24 hours • Doesn’t make enough wet or dirty diapers (see page 31)

EXTREME WARNING

Call 911 or go to the closest emergency room if your baby has: • A high-pitched cry • Strange eye movements • An arched body • Stiff, limp, or floppy body

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care