Directions for a Bili Blanket

Many newborn babies develop jaundice during their first week of life. Jaundice develops when bilirubin, a yellow pigment found in bile and blood, builds up to a high level in a baby's blood. One effective treatment for jaundice is frequent feedings. If frequent feedings are not enough to bring bilirubin levels back down, a physician may recommend phototherapy using a biliblanket. A biliblanket is a blanket containing therapeutic light. By placing a biliblanket directly against a jaundiced baby's skin, the light will reduce bilirubin levels in the baby's blood.

Things You'll Need

  • Biliblanket
  • Receiving blanket

Instructions

    • 1

      Situate the base of the biliblanket on a flat and sturdy surface near an electrical outlet. Make sure the biliblanket extension reaches easily into the baby's bed. Plug the base of the biliblanket into the outlet.

    • 2

      Cover the biliblanket extension with the disposable cloth covering.

    • 3

      Loosen the baby's clothing so you can insert the biliblanket extension between the baby's clothing and skin.

    • 4

      Position the baby on her back so the biliblanket extension is flat against the baby's back and the baby is laying on it. The extension should connect with as much skin as possible. Cover the baby with a blanket, if desired.

    • 5

      Turn the control on the base of the biliblanket to high to turn the light on. Leave the biliblanket laying against the baby's skin for as long as is recommended by your doctor.

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