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Sunday, July 21, 2013

How to Use a Biliblanket for Infant Jaundice

How to Use a Biliblanket for Infant Jaundice

Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin caused by a build up of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Infants typically experience slight jaundice after birth with no long-term risks. However, severe cases of jaundice require medical intervention. Left untreated, jaundice can cause cerebral palsy, brain damage or deafness. Learn to use a Biliblanket to break down excess bilirubin in your infant.

Instructions

    1

    Familiarize yourself with the Biliblanket and its various parts. The fiber-optic pad is the part that goes directly on the infant's skin. The light generating box produces the phototherapy light and should be placed on a flat surface. The connector cable joins the two parts and should be free of defects.

    2

    Double-check with your pediatrician how long and how often your infant should be under the Biliblanket. The severity of the jaundice will be the determining factor.

    3

    Remove the infant's clothes except for the diaper and wrap him in the Biliblanket. You can rock, nurse or bottle feed while he is under the Biliblanket.

    4

    Cover the infant's eyes to avoid exposure to the light. Use the cloth eye pads or eye coverings your hospital or physician can provide.

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