Jaundice is one of the most common conditions in newborns, with a majority of infants developing some degree of hyperbilirubinemia. While physiological jaundice is a common condition in newborn babies, recognising the warning signs of pathological jaundice is crucial to prevent complications such as kernicterus.

This module focuses on practical, evidence-based approaches to managing neonatal jaundice, including being equipped with clinical tools and decision-making strategies to confidently manage neonatal jaundice in practice.

This module will take you through the application of learning about jaundice to your practice. We recommend that you also complete the module The physiology of neonatal jaundice (30 minutes) for a fuller understanding of the condition itself.

Learning outcomes:

This module will help you to:

• recognise the clinical signs and understand the consequences of hyperbilirubinaemia
• use the NICE bilirubin charts appropriately and confidently
• identify common causes of prolonged jaundice
• understand the role of phototherapy and exchange transfusion

Study time: 40 minutes

This module aligns with the following NMC Standards of proficiency for midwives:

Domain 4: Additional care for women and newborn infants with complications

Domain 6: The midwife as skilled practitioner

Published: 2024