Phototherapy involves shining fluorescent light from the bili lights on bare skin. A specific wavelength of light can break down bilirubin into a form that the body can get rid of through the urine and stools. The light looks blue.

The newborn is placed under the lights without clothes or just wearing a diaper.

The eyes are covered to protect them from the bright light.

The baby is turned frequently.

The health care team carefully notes the infant's temperature, vital signs, and responses to the light. They also note how long the treatment lasted and the position of the light bulbs.

The baby may become dehydrated from the lights. Fluids may be given through a vein during treatment.

Blood tests are done to check the bilirubin level. When the levels have dropped enough, phototherapy is complete.

Some infants receive phototherapy at home. In this case, a nurse visits daily and draws a sample of blood for testing.

Treatment depends on 3 things:

Gestational age

Bilirubin level in the blood

Newborn's age (in hours)

In severe cases of increased bilirubin, an exchange transfusion may be done instead.