Jaundice
is caused by too much bilirubin
in the baby’s blood. The newborn or premature baby’s
liver cannot handle the baby’s blood efficiently and the
baby gets a yellow color to the skin and white part of the eyes.
Jaundice usually starts the third or fourth day but some babies
with a lot of bruising may be treated earlier.
Special fluorescent lights are used to help
treat jaundice. If your baby is jaundiced, he or she will go under
the light after being put in an isolette or on the warming table.
The warmer or isolette will help keep your baby warm because the
light needs to shine on the baby’s bare skin. Babies under
the light need to wear eye protection. We will of course remove
the eye patches when you are able to visit your baby.
Billrubin is also removed in the stool. Your
baby may need frequent feedings to aid the digestion process.
Babies with jaundice may be a bit fussy or they may sleep a lot.
Treatment for jaundice usually takes several
days depending on the baby’s age and health status.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.
