Assessment of hyperbilirubinemia in full-term infants: Part I

Nurse practitioners are in a key position to assess one of the most common problems in the full-term infant, unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. Armed with a clear understanding of the pathophysiologic pathways that may cause and/or contribute to the development of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia and the associated jaundice, the practitioner will be successful in helping the family understand their child's illness. A careful history and physical examination will guide the practitioner to the appropriate diagnostic studies, which will confirm that the infant has unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia and is at low risk for complications.