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Hyperbilirubinemia

In this chapter of the Rwandan National Neonatal Protocol, Dr. Hippolyte Bwiza-Muhire discusses risk factors for hyperbilirubinemia in full-term and premature infants, how to assess hyperbilirubinemia on a physical exam and how to initiate laboratory testing to determine, initiate, and manage appropriate treatment for hyperbilirubinemia in the neonate.

Released:

February 12, 2020

Audience:

Physicians, Nurses

Learning Objectives
  • Explain the pathophysiology of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia by distinguishing physiologic jaundice from non-physiologic jaundice and describing factors that influence bilirubin production, metabolism, and excretion.

  • Identify risk factors, clinical findings, and laboratory studies used in the assessment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, including conditions that increase the risk of severe jaundice and bilirubin toxicity.

  • Apply physical examination findings and bilirubin measurements to recognize significant hyperbilirubinemia and determine when further diagnostic evaluation is required.

  • Analyze treatment decisions for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia by selecting appropriate interventions, including phototherapy, hydration support, monitoring, and exchange transfusion when indicated.

  • Evaluate neonatal patients with jaundice to develop comprehensive management plans that address both bilirubin reduction and underlying contributing conditions such as hemolysis, sepsis, infection, or metabolic disorders.

Author(s)

Hippolyte Bwiza Muhire, MD 

Consultant Pediatrician, Neonatologist | Rwamagana Provincial Hospital

Citation

Citation: Bwiza-Muhire, H, Hansen, O, Wills, K, Hansen, A. Rwandan National Neonatal Protocol: Hyperbilirubinemia. 02/2020. Online Video. OPENPediatrics. https://www.openpediatrics.org/assets/video/rwandan-national-neonatal-protocol-hyperbilirubinemia-0.

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