Risk Factors for Failing to Detect Kernicterus in Neonate

 

Failures:

(1) to measure the serum bilirubin in an infant noted to be jaundiced within the first 24 hours or before hospital discharge

(2) to provide early follow-up (within 48 hours of discharge) following early discharge (less than 48 hours after delivery), especially in a near-term infant

(3) to provide early follow-up of an infant noted to be jaundiced before discharge

(4) to make sure that the infant has adequate hydration and nutrition

(5) to educate family about hyperbilirubinemia

(6) to recognize the presence of risk factors for severe hyperbilirubinemia

(7) to recognize severe jaundice because of reliance on clinical appearance alone, especially in a child with dark colored skin

(8) to be concerned about the presence of jaundice

(9) to respond to a parent's concerns about jaundice, poor feeding, or lethargy

 

Delays when there is evidence of a rapidly rising serum bilirubin and/or severe hyperbilirubinemia:

(1) in diagnosis

(2) in initiating appropriate therapy