🎯 Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
✅ Define phototherapy and how it treats newborn jaundice
✅ Describe what to expect during phototherapy treatment
✅ Understand when phototherapy is necessary
✅ Debunk myths and explain safety of the procedure
💡 What Is Phototherapy?
Phototherapy is a special light treatment used in hospitals to lower high levels of bilirubin in a jaundiced baby’s blood. The blue light helps break down bilirubin in the skin, so it can be passed out in the baby’s urine and stool.
🌞 Think of phototherapy like a powerful medical version of early morning sunlight — focused, safe, and much more effective.
🧪 How Does It Work?
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The special blue light (wavelength 460–490 nm) transforms bilirubin into a water-soluble form.
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The baby’s liver can now easily remove it from the body.
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Treatment continues until bilirubin levels return to safe range.
📚 WHO Neonatal Jaundice Guidance:
🔗 https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240049072
🏥 What Happens During Phototherapy?
| Step | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 1. Baby Undressed | Baby will wear only a diaper to expose skin to the light |
| 2. Eye Protection | Eyes are covered with soft pads to prevent light damage |
| 3. Light Placement | Light is placed above or below baby, depending on machine type |
| 4. Feeding Continues | Breastfeeding is encouraged; baby may be removed temporarily to feed |
| 5. Monitoring | Nurses check baby’s temperature, weight, and bilirubin levels every few hours |
🔄 Duration of Treatment
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Usually lasts 1–3 days
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Stops when bilirubin drops to a safe level
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Some babies may need longer if levels are very high
⚠️ When Is Phototherapy Needed?
Not all jaundiced babies need phototherapy. It depends on:
| Condition | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Bilirubin level | If it crosses danger levels (depends on baby’s age & weight) |
| Baby’s age | Younger babies (Day 1–2) with jaundice need urgent care |
| Premature birth | Preemies can’t clear bilirubin well, so they need earlier treatment |
| Signs of severe illness | Poor feeding, fever, seizures, extreme sleepiness |
🎯 Doctors often use the Bilitool or WHO treatment thresholds.
🔗 https://www.bilitool.org
✅ Phototherapy Is Safe
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| “It burns the baby” | No. The lights are filtered and safe for baby’s skin |
| “It makes baby blind” | Eyes are always protected. No harm when used correctly |
| “Only white babies use light” | False. All races benefit. In fact, Black babies are often underdetected, so light is vital |
🌍 Real African Example
At a rural hospital in Kisii, Kenya, a CHW referred a 2-day-old baby with yellow eyes and poor feeding. Blood tests showed dangerously high bilirubin. Phototherapy started within an hour. The baby improved in 48 hours and went home safely.
📸 Types of Phototherapy Machines Seen in Africa
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Overhead LED Unit | Most common; hangs above crib or warmer |
| Fiber-optic Blanket | Light from below; good for small babies or transport |
| Double-sided Phototherapy | Used for very high bilirubin levels or in NICUs |
🛠 Some units are donated by NGOs or supplied through national newborn care programs.
📝 Mini Quiz – What Is Phototherapy?
Q1. What does phototherapy treat?
A. Fever
B. High bilirubin (jaundice)
C. Cough
D. Diarrhea
✅ Answer: B
Rationale: Phototherapy is used to reduce dangerous bilirubin levels in the blood.
Q2. What color of light is used in phototherapy?
A. Green
B. Red
C. Blue
D. White
✅ Answer: C – Blue
Rationale: Blue light helps break down bilirubin effectively.
Q3. During phototherapy, what should always be protected?
A. Baby’s feet
B. Baby’s ears
C. Baby’s eyes
D. Baby’s hair
✅ Answer: C – Eyes
Rationale: The light can damage newborn eyes if not protected with special eye covers.
