Information for the public

About this information

NICE guidelines provide advice on the care and support that should be offered to people who use health and care services.

This information explains the advice about jaundice in newborn babies that is set out in NICE guideline CG98.

The information about tests to recognise jaundice in newborn babies, when to start treatment and using phototherapy treatment was updated in 2016. This information can be found in the sections on testing for jaundice and treating jaundice.

Does this information apply to me?

Yes, if you are a parent or carer of a newborn baby (including babies born prematurely) with jaundice, from birth to 28 days.

No, if you are the parent or carer of a baby:

  • with jaundice that lasts longer than the first 28 days after birth

  • who needs surgery to treat the cause of their jaundice

  • with a type of jaundice caused by an increased level of a special form of bilirubin known as 'conjugated bilirubin'.

  • Information Standard