Question
My newborn has developed jaundice on the ninth day after birth, showing signs on the face and eyes. No medication has been administered yet. Should I take my child to a nearby small hospital immediately, or wait a few days before taking any action? The mother’s blood type is O, while the child and father’s blood type is B. How can I perform a self-check for neonatal jaundice?
Answer
The diagnosis of neonatal jaundice hinges on bilirubin testing, which can be performed through venipuncture or capillary blood sampling to measure serum bilirubin (tsb). Additionally, the routine screening for neonatal jaundice includes blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid cultures, serum specific antibodies, C-reactive protein, and blood sedimentation tests, as well as electrophysiological examinations for hearing and vision. If jaundice symptoms are observed in the newborn, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for professional examination to ensure the child’s health.