What is a risk factor for neonatal physiological jaundice as explained by the nurse?

Neonatal physiological jaundice is a common condition seen in newborns, caused by an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. The correct answer highlights a risk factor linked to the gestational age of the infant. Infants born at 35-38 weeks of gestation are at an increased risk for jaundice because their liver, which is responsible for processing and eliminating bilirubin, may not be fully mature. This immaturity can lead to the inability to effectively conjugate and excrete bilirubin, resulting in elevated levels in the blood.

In contrast, other factors such as low birth weight, maternal diabetes, and Rh incompatibility can contribute to jaundice, but they are not classified as physiological jaundice risk factors in the same way. For example, while low birth weight can pose risks of various complications, it is not a standalone indicator of physiological jaundice, and maternal diabetes or Rh incompatibility typically lead to pathological jaundice rather than physiological. Understanding how gestational age plays a crucial role in the development of physiological jaundice helps nurse practitioners identify at-risk infants and take appropriate action for monitoring and management.