About our Jaundice service
Most newborns turn a little yellow in their first week, and most of the time it settles on its own. What matters is measuring the level at the right time — because a level that climbs too high needs treatment quickly. At Klinik NurCahaya you can have your baby checked from 8:00 AM to 7:00 AM, every day, without an appointment.
When to bring your baby in
See a doctor the same day if your baby:
- looks yellow within the first 24 hours of life
- is getting more yellow, or the yellow has spread to the tummy, arms, legs, palms or soles
- is feeding poorly, is very sleepy or is hard to wake for feeds
- has fewer wet nappies than expected, dark urine, or pale / chalky stools
- is still yellow after 14 days (21 days if born premature)
Go straight to a hospital emergency department if your baby is floppy or unusually stiff, arches the back, has a high-pitched cry, has a fever, or has a fit.
What happens at the visit
- 1. History and examination. The doctor asks about the birth, feeding, nappies and blood groups, then examines your baby undressed in good light and checks the weight.
- 2. Bilirubin test. A small heel-prick blood sample measures the bilirubin level.
- 3. The result, explained. The number is read against your baby’s age in hours and risk factors, and we tell you plainly what it means.
- 4. A clear plan. Either a repeat check (we’ll tell you exactly when) or treatment, depending on the level.
Treatment: phototherapy at the clinic or at home
- Phototherapy at the clinic. When the level calls for it, your baby can be treated under phototherapy lights here, with the bilirubin re-checked to confirm it is coming down.
- Phototherapy machine rental. When the doctor considers it safe for your baby’s level, you can rent a phototherapy unit to use at home. We show you how to use it and book the repeat heel-prick checks.
- Referral when needed. Babies with very high or fast-rising levels, or with warning signs, are referred to hospital the same day.
What to bring
- Your baby’s health record book and hospital discharge summary
- Mother’s and baby’s blood group, if you know them
- Previous bilirubin results, with dates and times
- MyKid or birth certificate, and your panel card if you have one
Caring for a jaundiced baby at home
- Feed often — at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Wake a sleepy baby for feeds.
- Keep breastfeeding. Don’t give plain water, glucose water or herbal remedies.
- Sunlight is not a treatment. Putting a baby in the sun doesn’t lower bilirubin reliably, and risks sunburn, overheating or chilling.
- Keep the follow-up date even if your baby looks better — skin colour alone can mislead.
Worried at 2 AM? Come in. A doctor is on duty 23 hours a day.
Frequently asked questions
How soon after leaving hospital should my baby be checked?
Follow the review date you were given at discharge — usually within the first few days of life. Come earlier, at any hour we’re open, if your baby looks more yellow, feeds poorly or is very sleepy.
Is newborn jaundice dangerous?
Usually not. Mild jaundice is common and fades within one to two weeks. But a very high bilirubin level can harm a baby’s brain, which is why the level is measured and followed rather than judged by eye.
Can I treat jaundice by putting my baby in the morning sun?
No. Sunlight doesn’t lower bilirubin reliably and can cause sunburn, overheating or chilling. If treatment is needed it is done with medical phototherapy under supervision.
Can my baby have phototherapy at home?
Yes, when the doctor judges it safe for your baby’s bilirubin level. We rent out phototherapy units, show you how to use them, and schedule repeat heel-prick checks. Babies with very high levels are treated under closer supervision or referred to hospital.
Should I stop breastfeeding?
No. Keep breastfeeding, 8 to 12 times a day. Frequent feeding helps your baby pass bilirubin. Don’t give plain water, glucose water or herbs. If feeding is difficult, tell the doctor — we can help.
How long does jaundice last?
In most full-term babies it fades by about two weeks. If your baby is still yellow after 14 days (21 days for premature babies), bring them in: prolonged jaundice needs further tests.
Can I come at night or on weekends?
Yes. We’re open 8:00 AM to 7:00 AM every day, including weekends and public holidays. No appointment is needed for a jaundice check.
Do you accept panel cards for newborn checks?
We accept many panels, but newborn cover depends on your plan. Bring your card and we’ll check at the counter, or WhatsApp us first.
General information, not a substitute for seeing a doctor. Medical Disclaimer
