JAUNDICED NEWBORN

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

HOME ADVICE FOR MILD JAUNDICE

Bottlefed: If bottlefed, increase the frequency of feedings. Try for an interval of every 2 to 3 hours during the day.
Breastfed: If breastfed, increase the frequency of feedings. Nurse the baby every 1½ to 2½ hours during the day. Don't let the baby sleep more than 4 hours at night without a feeding.
Increase stools: If your baby is 5 days or older AND has less than 3 stools/day, carefully insert a lubricated thermometer ½ inch into the anus and gently move it from side to side a few times to stimulate a stool (reason: increased stools carry more bilirubin out of the body). Do this once or twice per day until jaundice improves or stool frequency becomes normal.
Expected Course: Physiological jaundice peaks on day 4 or 5 and then gradually disappears over 1-2 weeks.
Judging Jaundice: View your baby unclothed in natural light near a window. Press on the yellow skin with a finger to remove the normal skin tone. Then assess the jaundice color before the pink color returns.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Jaundice not gone by day 14.
- Your baby is not getting enough milk. (needs a weight check).
- Your baby starts to act sick.
- Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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