Question
What are the initial methods for diagnosing neonatal jaundice? How can one observe a baby’s jaundice situation at home?
Answer
The diagnosis of neonatal jaundice can be made through visual observation and by measuring the bilirubin levels through the skin, with the most accurate method being a blood test to check the serum bilirubin level. The “reduction” of jaundice does not mean complete disappearance but rather that the bilirubin level has dropped below the safe range. If the bilirubin level exceeds the standard, treatment is required, which primarily includes phototherapy, exchange transfusion, and medication treatment control. Exchange transfusion is suitable for cases diagnosed as severe jaundice or above and when phototherapy fails, while medication treatment control is slower in effect and is more commonly used for babies over two weeks old.