Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (NCC) Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Kernicterus is a type of brain damage that occurs in newborns due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood, a condition known as hyperbilirubinemia. The risk of developing kernicterus typically increases significantly when bilirubin levels reach approximately 20 mg/dl or higher.

At this level, the bilirubin can cross the blood-brain barrier and lead to toxicity within the central nervous system. It's important for healthcare providers to monitor bilirubin levels closely, especially in newborns, to prevent complications associated with elevated bilirubin. Levels consistently above this threshold warrant immediate intervention to reduce bilirubin levels and prevent potential neurological damage.

While levels lower than 20 mg/dl can still indicate the presence of jaundice and require monitoring, the specific risk for kernicterus is primarily associated with bilirubin levels of 20 mg/dl or higher. Thus, understanding this association is essential for managing and caring for infants at risk of elevated bilirubin levels.