Newborn Care: Phototherapy for Jaundice

Importance of Diaper During Phototherapy

Phototherapy is a common treatment for jaundice in newborns. It involves exposing the baby to a special type of light that helps break down excess bilirubin in the blood. During phototherapy, it is important for the newborn to wear a diaper.

Monitoring Stool Output

One of the key reasons for ensuring the newborn wears a diaper during phototherapy is to monitor stool output. Meconium, which is the baby's first stool, needs to be cleared from the intestines. By keeping the newborn in a diaper, healthcare providers can closely monitor stool output to assess the effectiveness of phototherapy in lowering bilirubin levels.

Protecting Sensitive Skin

In addition to monitoring stool output, wearing a diaper also helps protect the newborn's sensitive skin from the UV light used in phototherapy. The skin of newborns is delicate and can easily be irritated by direct exposure to light. A diaper acts as a barrier, ensuring the skin remains protected during treatment.

Other Considerations

It is important to note that giving glucose water, keeping the infant's head covered with a cap, or applying lotion are not necessary actions during phototherapy. Newborns receive all their nutritional needs through breast milk or formula, and glucose water is not routinely recommended. Keeping the head covered with a cap may interfere with the effectiveness of phototherapy, and applying lotion can potentially cause skin issues or reduce the treatment's efficacy.

Proper Hydration

Newborns have immature kidneys and require proper hydration. Ensuring the baby gets enough fluid intake through breastfeeding or formula feeding is crucial for their overall well-being, especially during phototherapy treatment.