Accepted Answer

Hi Adam,

 

SM is offline right now, maybe I can help you with your concerns.

 

Neurotoxicity from "kernicteris" or newborn jaundice becomes a very real concern when bilirubin levels go over 25, and especially when the baby is not receiving treatment. Many times, an affected newborn will have a rise in bilirubin that requires further treatment, after having been treated once.

 

There are many variables. And certainly it would be wise to make sure there is follow-up in regards XX XXX other condition that may be causing this, besides the normal "neonatal physiologic jaundice".

 

To put you at ease, somewhat (being a mother of many, and grandmother of a few I can imagine how you feel)---this is the most common cause for medical treatment of newborns. So remember that, because I am going to give you a link to an article that has all the information in one place and is the most updated. It is a bit technical, and it can be a bit alarming. But keep in mind, the purpose of being alarming is to make sure people (parents and medical professional alike) understand the ramifications of this "common" ailment to ensure babies get the appropriate treatment.

 

So, having said all that---here is the link to Neonatal Jaundice from eMedicine. There is a section under "Treatment", toward the bottom of that page that starts with "Keypoints" that lists how to properly administer phototherapy. This will be good if the baby is taken home with the light bed treatment again. Also, there is a lot of historical data in the article, so you have to weed through all that.

 

Keep in mind when you are looking at the bilirubin numbers: you are dealing with the *mg/dl* which will usually be the numbers in parentheses.

 

My best wishes to you and yours.

Expert:	Valarie
Pos. Feedback:	99.5 %
Accepts:	582
Answered:	8/26/2009

Nurse (RN)

35+ yrs nursing experience; Dir of Nursing Skilled Nursing/Rehab; Elder Care Consultant