Implementation of a Transcutaneous Bilirubinometer

If a baby is jaundiced, the ward-nurse will perform a transcutaneous bilirubin measurement. It takes about 5 seconds to perform the measurement at the forehead or sternum of the baby. The device is a validated measurement-tool, which provides us with an estimated serum bilirubin-concentration. This is not an invasive procedure: A light-reflection is used to measure transcutaneous bilirubin.

To detect newborns with jaundice (who will possibly meet the criteria for phototherapy) there have been international guidelines formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The standard of care at the neonatal- and maternity ward of our hospital to detect those newborns is visual assessment according to these guidelines.