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A physiologic approach to identifying neonates at risk for kernicterus
1University of Texas Health Science Center, School of Nursing, San Antonio 78284.
Nurses routinely assess skin color and serum bilirubin levels to identify newborns at risk for kernicterus. High serum bilirubin levels can be toxic to the central nervous system. Through careful evaluation, nurses can help prevent the occurrence of adverse consequences from hyperbilirubinemia. By understanding the physiologic principles involved in bilirubin metabolism and the transition that must be made at birth, nurses can help in identifying and assessing risk factors in the newborn.
Nurses routinely assess skin color and serum bilirubin levels to identify newborns at risk for kernicterus. High serum bilirubin levels can be toxic to the central nervous system. Through careful evaluation, nurses can help prevent the occurrence of adverse consequences from hyperbilirubinemia. By understanding the physiologic principles involved in bilirubin metabolism and the transition that must be made at birth, nurses can help in identifying and assessing risk factors in the newborn.