Question

a. What is the difference between pathologic jaundice and physiological jaundice?

b. Why do many newborns experience physiological jaundice?

c. How is jaundice monitored?

d. What is phototherapy?

e. What would the nurse educate parents dealing with jaundice about?

Answer 1

a.Difference between pathologic jaundice and physiologic jaundice

Pathologic Jaundice	Physiologic jaundice
This occurs only when there is an underlying problem It occurs in the first 24 hours if life Settles down after a week ,usually lasting for a month This can happen die to Rh incompatibility, decreased oxygen level,endocrine problems The bilirubin levels are usually above 5mg/dL Complications like icteric eye,blindness ,brain damage can occur if not treated on time	This can occur for all newborn It occurs in about 3 to 4 days after birth Settles down in a week time This can occur dir to poor breadt feeding,low birth weight The bilirubin level is usually in between 2 to 5mg/do No complications occurs

b.The main reason for many newborns to experience physiological jaundice is because of the transition period .The excess bilirubin breaks down and the process in excretion of this elevated the bilirubin level leading to jaundice. The level if RBC are more in newborn this undergoes a transition period or dead of cells occurs rapidly changing its pigment from red to yellow and then eliminated from body through urine and sweat meanwhile the skin ,eyes,urine turns yellow called as jaundice .

c.The jaundice is monitored in the following ways

• The physical examination daily for the changes in the skin color ,eye color, urine color and output, stool color and output,breast feeding
• The blood test for bilirubin is done to monitor the level of the jaundice

d.The word phototherapy itself refers to photo (light) therapy (treatment).The placement of the baby under this light therapy is called as phototherapy. The ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays are emitted through this therapy which can decrease the level 9f bilirubin in the baby.

e.The following education to be provided to the baby

• Adequate or increase in the number of breastfeeding will increase urine output and bowel movements which will excrete the excess bilirubin
• Exposing the baby in early morning sunlight
• Observe for any abnormal changes like low urine output, increase in symptoms to seek medical help immediately.