MBBS OSCE · Paediatrics

Neonatal jaundice — assessment and phototherapy counselling OSCE

OSCE on pathological jaundice recognition, work-up, phototherapy explanation, danger signs of encephalopathy.

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Exam tags

NEET-PGINICET

Candidate instructions

Assess the neonate, outline investigations, start appropriate therapy, and counsel parents.

Candidate tasks

  1. Identify pathological features (early onset, high TSB, poor feeding).
  2. Request timed TSB interpretation, blood group/Coombs, G6PD, sepsis screen if unwell.
  3. Explain intensive phototherapy and when exchange transfusion is considered.
  4. Counsel feeding, eye protection, monitoring, and warning signs.
  5. Mention kernicterus risk if untreated severe disease.

Examiner checklist

  • Pathological vs physiological distinction
  • Hour-specific threshold concept
  • Haemolysis work-up including G6PD
  • Phototherapy practicalities
  • Exchange if encephalopathic/threshold failure
  • Parental communication quality

Model standard

Treat as pathological early jaundice: intensive phototherapy now, investigate haemolysis, escalate to exchange if needed, prevent kernicterus.

Common errors

  • "Physiological, observe only" despite high early TSB
  • Delaying therapy for non-essential tests
Neonatal jaundice — assessment and phototherapy counselling OSCE · MBBS OSCE · NeetVellum