Surrey newborns with jaundice can now be treated at home

The maternity unit at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has started using system to allow newborn babies with jaundice to receive treatment in their own homes.

The Bilicocoon system is a new phototherapy system.

Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, often mild and resolving without intervention. However, rising bilirubin levels may require phototherapy, traditionally administered in hospital under special blue lights with limited opportunity for parent-infant bonding during treatment.

Dr Benedicta Agbagwara-Osuji, Director of Midwifery, explained that their introduction of Bilicocoon phototherapy allows suitable families to reduce hospital stays and avoid additional visits. "It means parents can stay close to their newborn during those precious early days," Dr Agbagwara-Osuji said.

Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Vanessa Sturt, who spearheaded the project's establishment, shared her excitement at seeing their first baby receive at-home treatment: "It has been fantastic to see the service come to life and provide a positive experience for families," Sturt said.

Mahjabin Syeda, a new mother, shared that using Bilicocoon at home made a stressful time manageable. "Our baby received the necessary treatment while we stayed together and enjoyed those precious first days at home," Syeda said. She expressed gratitude for the midwife's ongoing support, adding: "It gave us great reassurance and confidence."

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