Hyperbilirubinemia PDF

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Hyperbilirubinemia ...

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Hyperbilirubinemia Educational Pamphlet What is it? Bilirubin is carried in the bloodstream to the liver, then it binds in there with yellow bile. Your bile ducts take the bilirubin to the digestive tract where it is then eliminated. Its mostly removed in stool but some can be removed through urine. When levels are high this indicated there’s a liver function problem. A little jaundice is normal for a newborn, but when it starts progressing or getting worse call your provider immediately. Before birth the mother’s liver removed bilirubin from the baby while in the womb. So when the baby is born, it might take a little bit for the babies liver to start doing this on its own. So then, physiological jaundice may occur (jaundice after birth). All babies should be seen within the first 5 days of being born to check for jaundice. How can I check if my child has it? You can press on your babies’ skin on the cheek or abdomen lightly with one of your fingers. Then release the pressure and observe for the yellowish tint. The skin or whites of the eyes will be yellowish. When not emergent, baby being in the sunlight helps. When is it emergent? If baby has a fever, or isn’t feeding well call your provider Complications: Could result in cerebral palsy, deafness, or brain damage from very high levels Tx: phototherapy is the tx. Bilirubin should start to decrease 4-6 hr. after starting tx. Baby will wear an eye mask to protect his or her eyes during this process. The baby will be undressed and only wearing a diaper during therapy. Avoid lotions and ointments, as it could cause a burn. You will hold and interact with baby when phototherapy lights turn off. Receive follow up care within two days of discharge. If higher risk, infant should be seen within 24 hours....