Transcutaneous bilirubinometer use and practices surrounding jaundice in 150 California newborn intensive care units.

OBJECTIVES: Transcutaneous bilirubin measurements (TcBs) provide a noninvasive method for screening infants for hyperbilirubinemia and have been used extensively in term and late preterm newborns in well baby nurseries, offices, and outpatient clinics. Several studies have also demonstrated the utility of TcBs as a screening tool for infants > 28 weeks' gestation and their ability to reduce the need for blood sampling. The objectives of this study are to identify how often TcBs are used among California Newborn Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in preterm, late preterm and term infants, and other aspects of jaundice management.

METHODS: We conducted a survey on TcB use and practices relating to jaundice management in 150 California NICUs between April and October 2016.

RESULTS: TcB screening is routinely used in 28% (42/150) of NICUs. Only 7% (11/150) of NICUs use TcB in preterm infants  28 weeks, only 28% of California NICUs routinely use TcB devices. TcB screening in infants