EXPERIENCES OF MOTHERS HAVING BABIES WITH NEONATAL JAUNDICE

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:- Jaundice is the commonest abnormal physical finding during first week of life. Neonatal jaundice affects 30%-50% of newborn infant in worldwide. The incidence of jaundice is much higher in preterm infants. 80% of preterm babies and 60% of full term babies were having signs of jaundice in their first three days of life. In United State of America, it is reported that more than 60%  of all  3.5 million healthy babies admitted in well baby nurseries developed jaundice and diagnosed with increased bilirubin level during their first week of life.. In India neonatal jaundice occur in 60%-65 % of all live births. In Karnataka 55% of newborns suffer with neonatal jaundice. METHODS: An electronic search of 12 published articles were started on Pub Med, EBSCO, BMC Public Health,. Out of which 8 articles were removed and 4 full text articles were selected on the bases of inclusive criteria of narrative review. RESULT: All these studies were successful in exploring mother’s experiences having their neonates suffering from neonatal jaundice. It includes mother’s perception of cause of hyperbilirubinemia, their reactions towards jaundice management, their reaction to the yellow skin, mother’s blame, sorrow and doubts regarding the effects of jaundice management. CONCLUSION: Based on all these studies which included in this narrative review, it is clear that strong error, fault  and concerns persist to be a problem for mothers experiencing neonatal jaundice. Instructive programs regarding newborn jaundice and its management through prenatal care guidance and mass media is suggested as an precedence for health system of the nation.