NEONATE: Jaundice Flashcards
Jaundice neonate: What test is done?
The coombs’ test is frequently used in the evaluation of a jaundiced infant. Understanding how the test is done and what it means is critical to the correct interpretation of a positive result.
The two most commonly recognized forms of antibody-mediated hemolysis in newborns?
Pathlogic Jaundice
Rh incompatibilityABO incompatibility.
Two types of jaundice may occur in newborns who are breastfed. Both types are most often harmless.
(MedlinePlus)
1) Breastfeeding jaundice is seen in breastfed babies during the first week of life. It is more likely to occur when babies do not nurse well or the mother’s milk is slow to come in.
2) The problem may be due to how substances in the breast milk affect the breakdown of bilirubin in the liver.
Breast milk jaundice is different than breastfeeding jaundice.
Breast milk jaundice may appear in some healthy, breastfed babies after day 7 of life. It is likely to peak during weeks 2 and 3 but may last at low levels for a month or more.
Jaundice Tx/Instructions to Mother
1) A baby with jaundice needs to be kept well hydrated with breast milk or formula.
2) Feed the baby often (up to 12 times a day) to encourage frequent bowel movements. These help remove bilirubin through the stools.
3) Ask your doctor before giving your newborn extra formula.
4) Phototherapy
Jaundice that appears within 24 hrs may be indicative of a …?
(Mosby NCLEX 373)
Pathological process..if bilirubin level is elevated intervention is required
Physiologic jaundice does not appear until…?
Mosby NCLEX 373
After 24 hrs of life (Hogan 269)
?72 hours after birth
No jaundice should be present on the first day
True (ATI 270)
Kernicterus
complication of hyperbilirubinemia cause brain damage
Factors that increase risk of physiological jaundice (4)
Hogan 269
1) resolution of enclosed hemorrhaging e.g. cephalohematoma lots of bruising
2) Infection
3) Dehydration
4) Sepsis
