Hyperbilirubinemia

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is a common and potentially serious condition affecting more than half of all newborns. It is characterized by elevated bilirubin levels that may result in visible jaundice and, in rare cases, can progress to kernicterus—an irreversible form of brain damage. While often benign and self-limiting, timely diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent adverse outcomes.

This CME/CE course offers a focused review of the updated 2024 Clinical Practice Guidelines released by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for the management of hyperbilirubinemia in newborn infants at 35 or more weeks of gestation. These guidelines represent a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to the prevention, monitoring, and treatment of hyperbilirubinemia, addressing new thresholds for phototherapy and exchange transfusion, as well as risk stratification based on gestational age and comorbidities.

Participants will explore best practices for early identification and prevention of severe hyperbilirubinemia, including the role of pre-discharge bilirubin screening and breastfeeding support. The course outlines structured assessment techniques using hour-specific bilirubin nomograms, transcutaneous and serum bilirubin measurement, and follow-up protocols tailored to infant risk profiles.

Treatment modalities, including when to initiate phototherapy or proceed to exchange transfusion, are clearly defined and illustrated using flowcharts, clinical cases, and stepwise algorithms. Additionally, the course examines the complications of untreated or undertreated jaundice, such as bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction (BIND), and long-term neurodevelopmental concerns.

This webinar serves as a single trusted source for pediatricians, neonatologists, family practitioners, and advanced practice providers to stay up to date with the most current clinical recommendations, ensuring safe and high-quality care for both infants and their families.

Educational Objectives

• Describe the 2024 AAP clinical practice guideline for managing hyperbilirubinemia in newborns >=35 weeks of gestation.
• Discuss strategies for the prevention of hyperbilirubinemia in at-risk infants.
• Explain appropriate assessment tools and monitoring schedules for early detection.
• Select appropriate treatment options, including phototherapy and exchange transfusion, based on clinical criteria.
• Identify complications and long-term effects associated with untreated neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Who Should Do This Course?

This course is intended for:

• Pediatricians and Neonatologists overseeing newborn care and hospital discharge evaluations.
• Family Medicine Physicians and General Practitioners involved in neonatal assessments and postnatal follow-ups.
• Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants working in pediatrics, newborn nurseries, or maternal-child health.
• Maternity Nurses and Clinical Staff managing early infant screening and parent education.

The course is essential for clinicians responsible for preventing readmissions related to neonatal jaundice and ensuring early outpatient follow-up.

Did You Know?

• More than 60% of term infants and 80% of preterm infants develop clinical jaundice. (AAP Guidelines, 2024)
• Severe hyperbilirubinemia affects approximately 5–10% of newborns and can lead to kernicterus if untreated. (CDC, 2023)
• Universal predischarge bilirubin screening has reduced the incidence of severe hyperbilirubinemia and hospital readmissions. (Pediatrics, 2014)
• Phototherapy is effective in over 95% of infants needing treatment, with minimal adverse effects. (J Perinatol, 2019)
• The AAP now recommends risk-based follow-up visits within 24–72 hours post-discharge for most newborns. (AAP, 2024)