💡 Phototherapy Home Safety Checklist

Please review these steps before every session to ensure your baby is safe and receiving the full benefit of the light therapy.

🛡️ Eye & Skin Protection

  • [ ] Eye Shields On: Always ensure the protective eye patches/goggles are securely fastened before the lights are turned on.

  • [ ] Check Positioning: Periodically check that the goggles haven’t slipped down over the nose or up off the eyes.

  • [ ] Skin Exposure: Keep the baby in only a diaper (fold the diaper down at the waist if possible) to allow maximum light-to-skin contact.

  • [ ] No Lotions: Do not apply any oils, lotions, or creams to the baby’s skin, as these can cause burns under the lights.

🔌 Equipment Setup

  • [ ] Flat Surface: The unit is placed on a firm, flat surface (not a soft sofa or uneven bedding).

  • [ ] Airflow: Ensure the cooling fans on the light unit are not blocked by blankets or clothing.

  • [ ] Secure Cord: The power cord is tucked away to prevent a tripping hazard for parents.

🌡️ Temperature & Comfort

  • [ ] Monitor Temp: Check the baby's temperature (axillary/armpit) every 3–4 hours.

    • Ideal Range: 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F).

  • [ ] Overheating: If the baby feels too hot or develops a heat rash, turn off the lights for 10 minutes and offer a feeding.

  • [ ] Home Thermostat:  Suggestion:  If the baby's temperature is below 97.7 F, increase your home thermostat to up to  97.5 F.  If the baby's temperature is above 99.5, decrease the thermostat to about 97.2 F.  



             

⏱️ Maximizing Treatment

  • [ ] Minimize "Out" Time: Only take the baby out for feedings, diaper changes, and brief cuddles (aim for no more than 30 minutes out at a time).

  • [ ] Feeding Flush: Bilirubin is excreted through stool. Ensure the baby is feeding every 2–3 hours to "flush" the jaundice out.

🚨 When to Stop and Call Your Provider

Stop therapy and call 904-750-1344] or your Pediatrician immediately if:

  • The baby’s temperature is above 38.0°C (100.4°F).

  • The baby is too sleepy to wake up for two feedings in a row.

  • The baby has a high-pitched, unusual cry.

If the phototherapy bed is malfunctioning, turn it off and call 904-750-1344.