Should jaundice be measured during a 30 day physical examination for newborns?

A 30 day physical examination for newborns usually requires measuring jaundice levels. Neonatal jaundice is a common phenomenon, but persistent jaundice may indicate pathological problems, and health status needs to be evaluated through jaundice value monitoring. Neonatal jaundice is divided into two categories: physiological and pathological. Physiological jaundice usually appears 2-3 days after birth and subsides within 7-10 days. At this time, the jaundice value usually does not exceed 12mg/dL. If jaundice persists during the 30 day physical examination, be alert to the possibility of pathological jaundice. Pathological jaundice can be caused by breast milk jaundice, biliary atresia, hemolytic diseases, etc., manifested as jaundice values exceeding 15mg/dL or lasting for more than 2 weeks. During physical examination, accurate jaundice values can be obtained through percutaneous jaundice analyzer or serum bilirubin testing, which helps determine whether intervention is needed. Newborns who are partially breastfed may develop late-onset breast milk jaundice, which can last until 2-3 months after birth, but the jaundice value usually does not exceed 15mg/dL and the baby's general condition is good. This situation does not require special treatment and breastfeeding can continue. If an abnormal increase in jaundice or symptoms such as lighter stool color and decreased appetite are found during a 30 day physical examination, further examination is necessary to rule out serious diseases such as biliary atresia.

It is recommended that parents cooperate with the doctor to complete jaundice testing during the newborn's 30 day physical examination, and pay attention to observing whether the baby's skin jaundice has expanded and whether their mental reactions have worsened in daily life. Breastfeeding should be maintained at sufficient frequency to avoid dehydration exacerbating jaundice. If abnormal jaundice is detected, seek medical attention promptly to avoid neurological damage caused by hyperbilirubinemia.