Question
My child is 26 days old and the jaundice has not receded. The doctor suggested hospitalization for blue light therapy. After the jaundice level dropped to 9.6, it was considered normal. What is the normal range for jaundice levels? Do we still need to stay in the hospital for blue light therapy?
Answer
Newborn jaundice typically occurs between 3-5 days after birth and is a normal phenomenon. Normally, the jaundice index does not exceed 15mg/dl, which falls within the range of physiological jaundice. Therefore, a jaundice level of 9.6 in the child is normal. Parents should not be overly concerned and can increase water intake and expose the baby to sunlight to promote the fading of jaundice. If the jaundice persists for an extended period or the index is very high, it may be pathological jaundice, and it is recommended to seek treatment at a hospital. Blue light therapy in the hospital can help the child recover better, and adequate hydration also aids in the fading of jaundice.