Can a newborn with jaundice still undergo a physical examination

Newborns with persistent jaundice can generally undergo a physical examination, but the risk needs to be assessed based on the severity and cause of the jaundice. physiological jaundice or mild pathological jaundice usually does not affect routine physical examination. Treatment should be prioritized for moderate to severe jaundice or other symptoms.

Neonatal jaundice is a skin and mucous membrane yellowing phenomenon caused by abnormal bilirubin metabolism. Physical examination items such as height and weight measurement, cardiopulmonary auscultation, and other basic examinations are not contraindicated for children with jaundice. If the jaundice index is within a safe range and there are no abnormal symptoms such as drowsiness or milk refusal, a physical examination can help monitor growth and development. Premature infants or those who develop jaundice within 72 hours of birth should be judged based on the results of percutaneous bilirubin testing. Vaccination and other procedures that may increase liver burden should be avoided during physical examination. When jaundice persists for more than two weeks, bilirubin levels approach phototherapy standards, or there is gray white stool, physical examination may interfere with the diagnosis and treatment of the underlying disease. In such cases, etiological screening such as liver and gallbladder ultrasound and blood routine should be completed first. Physical examination should be postponed until jaundice subsides or the condition stabilizes. Jaundice caused by ABO hemolysis, biliary atresia, and other diseases may be masked by acute phase physical examination for details of changes in the condition.

It is recommended that parents measure and record changes in jaundice before physical examination, and bring all bilirubin test reports after birth. Medical examination institutions should be equipped with neonatologists to assess risks and avoid unnecessary examinations during the progression of jaundice. During the physical examination of children with breast milk jaundice, feeding adjustment plans can be consulted simultaneously. After the physical examination of children with pathological jaundice, bilirubin levels need to be rechecked.