Understanding Jaundice Neonatorum

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 132 views

The Effectiveness of Phototherapy on Decreased Levels of Bilirubin in Premature Babies at H. Adam Malik Hospital Medan

Jaundice neonatorum, a common condition in newborns, affects approximately 60% of babies born monthly and 80% of premature babies. Premature babies are more susceptible to jaundice due to their underdeveloped liver, which hinders the conversion of indirect bilirubin to direct bilirubin, resulting in increased levels of indirect bilirubin in plasma. To address this issue, phototherapy is a widely used management technique to reduce bilirubin levels. In Indonesia, research on the effectiveness of phototherapy in overcoming hyperbilirubinemia in premature babies is still limited. Phototherapy is recommended when bilirubin levels in infants at term exceed 12 mg/dl, while in premature babies, the limit is 15 mg/dl.

Understanding Jaundice Neonatorum

Jaundice neonatorum is a condition characterized by the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to kernicterus, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. The liver plays a crucial role in removing bilirubin from the blood, but in premature babies, the liver is not fully developed, making it difficult to process bilirubin. As a result, bilirubin levels can become elevated, leading to jaundice. Phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to break down bilirubin, making it easier for the liver to remove it from the blood.

Research Purposes

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of phototherapy in reducing bilirubin levels in premature babies who experience hyperbilirubinemia at H. Adam Malik Hospital Medan. The study seeks to investigate the impact of phototherapy on bilirubin levels in premature babies and to provide insights into the management of jaundice neonatorum in Indonesia.

Research Methods

This study employed an analytic method with a cross-sectional design. Data was collected from respondents and processed using a paired T test through data processing software. The study involved a sample of premature babies who received phototherapy at H. Adam Malik Hospital Medan.

Research Results

The results of the analysis with the paired T test showed a significant value (p = 0.001), indicating that phototherapy had a positive impact in reducing bilirubin levels. The average decrease in bilirubin levels after phototherapy in a group of infants with gestational age of less than 34 weeks was 5.29 ± 3.86 mg/dl, while in the gestation age group 34-36 weeks, there was a decrease of an average of 5.91 ± 4.70 mg/dl. Overall, the average decrease in bilirubin levels in all respondents studied was 5.58 ± 4.24 mg/dl, which is equivalent to 34.09%.

Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that phototherapy is an effective method for reducing levels of bilirubin in premature babies who experience hyperbilirubinemia. This study confirms the importance of using phototherapy as an initial intervention in the management of jaundice neonatorum, especially in infants born prematurely. Further efforts in broader and in-depth research in this field are expected to make a positive contribution to neonatal health handling in Indonesia.

Implications for Medical Personnel

With a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of phototherapy, medical personnel can be more optimal in handling premature babies with high risk of experiencing complications due to hyperbilirubinemia. Phototherapy can be used as a non-invasive treatment to reduce bilirubin levels, making it an essential tool in the management of jaundice neonatorum.

Recommendations for Future Research

Further research is needed to investigate the long-term effects of phototherapy on bilirubin levels in premature babies. Additionally, studies should be conducted to explore the use of phototherapy in combination with other treatments, such as exchange transfusion, to determine the most effective approach in managing jaundice neonatorum.

Limitations of the Study

This study had several limitations, including the small sample size and the use of a cross-sectional design. Future studies should aim to recruit a larger sample size and employ a longitudinal design to provide more comprehensive insights into the effectiveness of phototherapy.

In conclusion, this study provides evidence of the effectiveness of phototherapy in reducing bilirubin levels in premature babies who experience hyperbilirubinemia. The results of this study highlight the importance of using phototherapy as an initial intervention in the management of jaundice neonatorum, especially in infants born prematurely. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of phototherapy and to determine the most effective approach in managing jaundice neonatorum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Phototherapy for Premature Babies

Q: What is phototherapy?

A: Phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to break down bilirubin in the blood, making it easier for the liver to remove it. It is often used to treat jaundice neonatorum in premature babies.

Q: How does phototherapy work?

A: Phototherapy works by emitting a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the bilirubin in the blood. This causes the bilirubin to break down into a form that can be easily removed by the liver.

Q: What are the benefits of phototherapy for premature babies?

A: The benefits of phototherapy for premature babies include:

Reduced bilirubin levels
Decreased risk of kernicterus
Improved liver function
Reduced need for exchange transfusion

Q: What are the risks associated with phototherapy?

A: The risks associated with phototherapy include:

Skin irritation
Eye damage
Increased risk of infection

Q: How long does phototherapy typically last?

A: The duration of phototherapy can vary depending on the individual baby's needs. Typically, phototherapy is administered for 12-24 hours, but it can be longer or shorter depending on the baby's response.

Q: Can phototherapy be used in combination with other treatments?

A: Yes, phototherapy can be used in combination with other treatments, such as exchange transfusion, to manage jaundice neonatorum in premature babies.

Q: What are the signs that phototherapy is working?

A: The signs that phototherapy is working include:

Decreased bilirubin levels
Improved liver function
Reduced jaundice
Improved overall health

Q: Can phototherapy be used at home?

A: No, phototherapy should only be administered in a hospital setting by a trained healthcare professional. It requires specialized equipment and monitoring to ensure the baby's safety.

Q: How can parents support their premature baby during phototherapy?

A: Parents can support their premature baby during phototherapy by:

Keeping the baby calm and comfortable
Monitoring the baby's temperature and vital signs
Providing emotional support and reassurance
Following the healthcare team's instructions

Q: What are the long-term effects of phototherapy on premature babies?

A: The long-term effects of phototherapy on premature babies are not well understood and require further research. However, studies have shown that phototherapy can have a positive impact on the baby's overall health and development.

Q: Can phototherapy be used to treat jaundice in full-term babies?

A: Yes, phototherapy can be used to treat jaundice in full-term babies, but it is typically reserved for cases where the bilirubin levels are extremely high or the baby is at risk of kernicterus.

Q: How can healthcare professionals determine if a premature baby needs phototherapy?

A: Healthcare professionals can determine if a premature baby needs phototherapy by:

Conducting a physical examination
Measuring bilirubin levels
Monitoring the baby's vital signs
Assessing the baby's overall health and development

Q: What are the costs associated with phototherapy?

A: The costs associated with phototherapy can vary depending on the hospital and the specific treatment plan. However, phototherapy is typically covered by insurance and is considered a necessary treatment for premature babies with jaundice neonatorum.