Question
The newborn’s jaundice index was found to be 19 on the fourth day after birth. Is this within the normal range? If not, what measures should be taken?
Answer
If a newborn’s jaundice index reaches 19, this is considered relatively high. To more accurately assess the bilirubin level, it is recommended to go to the hospital for a blood test. In medical practice, it is usually suggested to promptly undergo blue light therapy and to take oral artichoke seed granules to reduce jaundice, preventing further deterioration of bilirubin encephalopathy or nuclear jaundice. Generally, blue light therapy may require about a week of continuous treatment. If the condition continues to worsen, other treatment methods may need to be considered.