Question

The neonate's age is a critical assessment because the development of jaundice before 24 to 48 hours have elapsed since birth may indicate

a) Hemolytic disease of the newborn
b) Physiological jaundice
c) ABO incompatibility
d) Breast milk jaundice

Answer 1

Jaundice developing within 24 to 48 hours after birth is likely due to Hemolytic disease of the newborn, a condition caused by excessive breakdown of fetal red blood cells and managed with phototherapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The development of jaundice in a neonate before 24 to 48 hours after birth can indicate a serious condition. Of the options provided, the correct answer is a) Hemolytic disease of the newborn. This condition occurs when there's excessive breakdown of fetal red blood cells due to antibodies developed by the mother, often in cases of Rh or ABO incompatibility. It leads to high levels of circulating unconjugated bilirubin, which can deposit in the brain tissue and cause kernicterus, a form of brain damage. Phototherapy is a commonly used treatment for hyperbilirubinemia, utilizing UV light to facilitate the breakdown of bilirubin in the newborn's system.