Case Report: Grade 5 Neonatal Jaundice with Delayed Referral and Evaluation of Management in Surabaya

Background: Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns due to increased bilirubin levels. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications such as kernicterus. Early detection, consistent management, and parental education are crucial to prevent long-term effects
Case Report: Baby Z, born full-term at the hospital with a birth weight of 3,300 grams, showed signs of jaundice on the second day. The baby was not immediately taken to a health facility and was only examined at the community health center at 9 days of age, diagnosed with grade 5 neonatal jaundice. After a follow-up on the 12th day, the condition remained the same, so a referral was made to a hospital in Surabaya. At the hospital, the infant received medication and breastfeeding education and was scheduled for a follow-up checkup in 7 days. At the follow-up checkup, the infant's total bilirubin level was measured at 12.89 mg/dL, and phototherapy was administered for 2x24 hours. After phototherapy, the total bilirubin level dropped to 8.73 mg/dL. Growth and development monitoring showed good motor development and feeding ability, although mild jaundice was still apparent at nearly two months of age.
Conclusion: Early detection, consistency in management, and education of parents about the danger signs of jaundice are key to preventing serious complications such as kernicterus and ensuring optimal infant development.