Care of Baby Under Phototherapy
Phototherapy is a treatment used to reduce high levels of bilirubin in a baby’s blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. In newborns, bilirubin levels can sometimes become too high, causing a condition called jaundice. Jaundice can make a baby’s skin and whites of their eyes appear yellow.
Phototherapy uses ultraviolet light to break down bilirubin into smaller molecules that can be more easily removed from the baby’s body. The light is delivered through a special lamp that is placed over the baby’s skin.
Phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment for jaundice. However, it can cause some side effects, such as:
- Skin rash
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Bronze baby syndrome (a temporary darkening of the baby’s skin)
These side effects are usually mild and will go away once the phototherapy is stopped.
How to Care for a Baby Under Phototherapy
If your baby is undergoing phototherapy, there are a few things you can do to help make the experience as comfortable as possible:
- Keep your baby’s skin clean. Bilirubin can build up on the baby’s skin, so it is important to keep it clean. You can do this by bathing your baby every day and using a mild soap.
- Protect your baby’s eyes. The ultraviolet light used in phototherapy can damage the baby’s eyes. It is important to protect your baby’s eyes by using eye patches or sunglasses.
- Keep your baby hydrated. Phototherapy can cause dehydration, so it is important to keep your baby hydrated. You can do this by offering your baby plenty of fluids, such as breast milk, formula, or water.
- Monitor your baby’s temperature. Phototherapy can cause the baby’s temperature to rise. It is important to monitor your baby’s temperature and keep them cool. You can do this by dressing your baby in light clothing and using a fan or air conditioner.
- Watch for side effects. Phototherapy can cause some side effects, such as skin rash, diarrhea, and dehydration. It is important to watch for these side effects and report them to your doctor.
When to Call the Doctor
Call your doctor if your baby:
- Has a fever
- Is not eating or drinking well
- Has diarrhea or vomiting
- Has a skin rash
- Is lethargic or irritable
Phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment for jaundice. By following these tips, you can help make the experience as comfortable as possible for your baby.
Additional Information
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all newborns be screened for jaundice.
- Phototherapy is usually started within 24 hours of birth if a baby’s bilirubin levels are high.
- The length of phototherapy treatment will vary depending on the baby’s bilirubin levels.
- Most babies will need to receive phototherapy for 2-3 days.
- Phototherapy is usually done in the hospital, but it can also be done at home.
If you have any questions about phototherapy, please talk to your doctor.