Skin exposure during conventional phototherapy in preterm infants: A randomized controlled trial

Objective: To assess the effect of reduced skin exposure in preterm infants receiving overhead phototherapy treatment on total serum bilirubin (TSB). Methods: Randomized controlled trial. Preterm infants (>1500 g birthweight and ≤ 36 weeks gestation) were randomized to being nursed either partially clothed with only disposable nappies and in posturally supported positions (n = 30) or naked without postural support (n = 29). Primary outcome was mean TSB percentage change at 24 h of completed conventional overhead phototherapy treatment (irradiance of 6 µWcm−2/nm at a wavelength of 425−475 nm). The incidence of rebound jaundice, number of infants continuing to receive phototherapy treatment at 24 h periods, parental stress, mother−infant interaction and mean TSB percentage change at 24 h of completed conventional overhead phototherapy treatment were examined. Results: Mean TSB percentage change at 24 h of completed treatment for the partially clothed group was 15.4% (±18) and for the naked group 19% (±15) (mean difference 3.6% 95% CI −5.1, 12.3). No other outcomes were significantly affected by reduced skin exposure to overhead phototherapy treatment. Conclusion: Our results show no statistically significant difference in TSB level change using either nursing practice.