Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
phototherapy
Light treatment using blue or white fluorescent lamps to break down bilirubin in newborns with jaundice.
Full Definition
Phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light, typically blue light at 420-490 nanometers, to convert unconjugated bilirubin into water-soluble isomers that can be excreted without liver conjugation. The treatment is administered using overhead lights, fiber-optic blankets, or LED systems, with the infant's eyes protected and positioned to maximize skin exposure. Duration and intensity depend on bilirubin levels and risk factors.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase unless beginning a sentence. Eye protection is mandatory and should be mentioned in documentation.
In Context
- "The phototherapy was initiated when the infant's bilirubin level reached 15 mg/dL at 48 hours of life." — nursing documentation
- "Position the neonate supine under the phototherapy lights with eye protection in place." — clinical protocol
Also known as
bili lights
light therapy
Don't confuse with
exchange transfusion