Question
How should one care for a newborn with jaundice?
Answer
The care for newborn jaundice should focus on protecting the baby’s skin, maintaining cleanliness, particularly of the umbilical cord and buttocks, to prevent injury and infection. At the same time, closely monitor the baby’s heart rate, heart sounds, anemia status, and changes in liver size to prevent and treat heart failure early. Additionally, pay attention to the baby’s overall condition, including mental state, suckling ability, eye contact, and limb movement, to promptly identify and address serious situations. In terms of diet, if diagnosed with breastfeeding jaundice, consider temporarily stopping breastfeeding for 3 to 5 days. Ensure the newborn takes in enough water as insufficient urine output is not conducive to bilirubin excretion. The mother should avoid alcohol and spicy foods during breastfeeding and should not consume excessive nutritional supplements.