Whether neonatal jaundice index of 14.1mg/dL requires hospitalization also needs to take into account the age of the neonate, whether the neonate is preterm or not, and whether there are any high-risk factors.
In general, the jaundice index of full-term newborns should be less than 12.9mg/dL, and that of preterm newborns should be less than 15mg/dL. If the newborn is a full-term baby, the jaundice index of 14.1mg/dL is considered to be caused by pathological jaundice, and active treatment is needed. If the infant is born prematurely, jaundice appears 1-2 days after birth and may not need treatment.
Pathological jaundice is characterized by the appearance of jaundice within 24 hours after birth, and the jaundice index rises more than 0.5mg/dL per day.
Neonatal jaundice index of 14.1mg/dL may develop bilirubin encephalopathy and hyperbilirubinemia if accompanied by high risk factors such as subcutaneous bruising, cephalohematoma, hemolysis of the newborn, hypoxia, sepsis, and hyperthermia. Active hospitalization is also required at this time.
Pathological jaundice in newborns is recommended to seek timely medical treatment under the guidance of a specialized doctor.