Question
A colleague checked a newborn’s jaundice and the report shows the jaundice index is 217. How many points does this correspond to?
Answer
The laboratory blood bilirubin index of 217 for newborn jaundice is relatively high and generally requires hospitalization. Treatment methods include timely blue light therapy and oral medication to reduce jaundice, avoiding further complications that could lead to brain damage or progression to kernicterus. Typically, a continuous week of blue light therapy is needed. If the condition worsens, blood transfusion treatment may be required. The specific treatment plan depends on the baby’s condition.