Neonatal Jaundice Threshold (NICE)
Indicates whether phototherapy or escalation is needed based on gestation and hours of life.
Score interpretation
SBR below treatment threshold at this age and gestation.
→ Repeat SBR in 6–12 hours if within 50 µmol/L of phototherapy threshold. Ensure adequate feeding. Reassess clinically.
SBR at or above phototherapy threshold for this age/gestation.
→ Start phototherapy (single or double). Repeat SBR 4–6 hours after starting. Ensure adequate hydration. Investigate cause: blood group, DAT, G6PD, TFTs if indicated.
Jaundice < 24h (always pathological) OR SBR at exchange transfusion threshold.
→ Jaundice < 24h: URGENT haematology review, blood group/DAT, haemolysis screen. Exchange transfusion threshold: NICU transfer immediately. Double/triple phototherapy while preparing. Neonatologist urgently.
Interpretation bands for the Neonatal Jaundice. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- NICE CG98. Neonatal jaundice. 2010 (updated 2016).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Colestyramine (Cholestyramine) · Bile Acid Sequestrant / Ion Exchange Resin
- Rozanolixizumab · Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) antagonist
- Efgartigimod alfa · Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blocker
- Phenobarbital (Paediatric Epilepsy — Beyond Neonatal) · Barbiturate Anticonvulsant
- Gentamicin (Paediatric) · Aminoglycoside — Neonatal Sepsis / Gram-Negative Infections in Children
- Aciclovir (Paediatric) · Antiviral — HSV Encephalitis / Neonatal Herpes / VZV in Immunocompromised
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.