Question
I recently took my newborn daughter to the hospital for a jaundice test, and the result showed a jaundice index of 14. I’m not quite sure about the significance of this number. Is a jaundice index of 14 considered high for newborns?
Answer
The assessment of newborn jaundice requires consideration of various factors, including gestational age, age, birth weight, and risk factors. If the level of jaundice is high within the first one or two days after birth, phototherapy may be necessary. However, if the baby is over a week old and full-term, this index usually does not pose a problem. Therefore, when a baby shows signs of jaundice, it is advisable to seek professional medical evaluation, as severe jaundice may lead to acute bilirubin encephalopathy.