Dermal bilirubin staining provides a clinical guide to the level of neonatal jaundice.
Progression and examination frequency
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Dermal staining progresses in a cephalocaudal direction.
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Every newborn should be examined for jaundice every 12 hours.
Examination technique
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Examine the neonate in natural light or bright white fluorescent light, avoiding a yellow or off-white background.
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Move the neonate to a brightly lit area if necessary and note the extent of jaundice.
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Use digital pressure to blanch the forehead, chest, abdomen, thighs, legs, palms, and soles. Observe the underlying color of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.