31/08/2025
🧑🍼Phototherapy:
✅Definition:
Phototherapy is a medical treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to reduce high levels of bilirubin in newborns (neonatal jaundice) or to manage certain skin conditions.
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✅Principle:
Phototherapy works by converting unconjugated bilirubin (fat-soluble) into water-soluble isomers that can be excreted through urine and stool without further conjugation in the liver.
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✅Indications:
Neonatal jaundice (hyperbilirubinemia)
Skin disorders: Psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Hyperbilirubinemia due to hemolytic disease of the newborn
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✅Types of Phototherapy:
1. Conventional phototherapy – Fluorescent or halogen lamps.
2. LED phototherapy – High efficiency, narrow spectrum light.
3. Fiber-optic phototherapy (biliblanket) – Useful for home-based therapy.
4. Exchange transfusion adjunct – In severe cases, phototherapy is combined with exchange transfusion.
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✅Procedure in Neonates:
Infant placed under phototherapy unit (blue-green light, 420–470 nm).
Infant wears eye pads and ge***al area shielded.
Frequent position changes for maximum light exposure.
Maintain hydration and monitor temperature.
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✅Advantages:
Non-invasive, safe, and effective.
Prevents kernicterus (bilirubin encephalopathy).
Reduces need for exchange transfusion.
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✅Side Effects:
Dehydration (increased insensible water loss).
Loose green stools.
Skin rashes, tanning/bronze baby syndrome.
Retinal damage (if eyes not protected).
Hypothermia or hyperthermia.
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✅Nursing Care in Phototherapy:
Monitor bilirubin levels regularly.
Assess hydration, temperature, and stool pattern.
Reposition baby every 2–3 hours.
Ensure protective eye pads are secure.
Educate parents about the therapy.
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✅ Summary:
Phototherapy is a safe, effective, and widely used treatment for neonatal jaundice and certain skin diseases. Proper nursing care and monitoring are essential to prevent complications.
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