Neonatal jaundice

Neonatal jaundice affects more than half of full-term babies, and in most cases, simply monitoring the condition is sufficient. We use a contact device – a bilirubinometer – to monitor the progression of neonatal jaundice. This is a painless test that forms part of the morning or, if necessary, evening rounds. In indicated cases, it is necessary to determine the level of bilirubin (a yellow pigment) in the blood more precisely.

When taking a blood sample, we use non-pharmacological methods of pain relief (swaddling and a few drops of sucrose solution on the tip of the tongue) to minimise any discomfort associated with the procedure. Parents may accompany their baby during the examination; this always depends on their preference. In the event of elevated serum bilirubin levels, we initiate treatment with blue light (phototherapy), which we also provide as part of the rooming-in system, whereby we place a special phototherapy lamp above the baby’s cot in close proximity to the mother’s bed.