What is the primary treatment for physiological jaundice in newborns with bilirubin levels over 15 mg/dL?

Phototherapy is the primary treatment for physiological jaundice in newborns with bilirubin levels that exceed 15 mg/dL. This non-invasive treatment involves exposing the infant to specific wavelengths of light that help convert bilirubin into a form that can be more easily excreted by the liver. This method is effective in reducing elevated bilirubin levels and is commonly used due to its safety and efficacy.

Use of phototherapy is typically indicated when bilirubin levels rise significantly, as excess bilirubin can lead to kernicterus, a serious condition that can cause neurological damage. The light therapy accelerates the metabolism and elimination of bilirubin, making it a key intervention for managing this condition in newborns.

Other treatment options like antibiotics, exchange transfusion, and surgical intervention are not primary treatments for physiological jaundice. Antibiotics would only be indicated if there was an underlying infection contributing to the jaundice. Exchange transfusion may be used in severe cases of hyperbilirubinemia or if there is a rapid increase in bilirubin levels, but this is typically a last resort due to the associated risks. Surgical intervention is not applicable in cases of physiological jaundice, as the underlying issue is not structural or mechanical but rather related to the metabolism of bilirubin