Newborn Weight Loss Tool and Readmission for Hyperbilirubinemia

Objective  The aim of this study was to determine if the Newborn Weight Loss Tool (NEWT) can predict hospital readmission due to hyperbilirubinemia. Study Design  This is a case-control study of 93 newborns and 186 controls ≥35 weeks' gestation. All were discharged from the Mother-Baby unit of an urban academic center and subsequently readmitted for hyperbilirubinemia. Controls were matched for date of birth, gestational age, and Bhutani risk zone. All infants were screened for hyperbilirubinemia prior to discharge and managed according to American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines in place at the time. Chi-square, Fisher's exact test, and multivariate analysis were utilized as appropriate. Results  There was no significant difference between the groups for a NEWT < 50% at discharge. More cases than controls breastfed. A significantly greater percentage of cases had NEWT > 50% at readmission than discharge. NEWT > 90% was moderately associated with readmission for hyperbilirubinemia (p = 0.081). Conclusion  NEWT provides a more nuanced assessment of weight loss following birth and can aid in highlighting newborns at risk for readmission due to hyperbilirubinemia. Key Points Weight loss is a risk factor for readmission after birth. NEWT is a more nuanced assessment of weight loss. NEWT > 90% is associated with readmission for jaundice.