Which of the following factors can result in jaundice in infants?

Prepare for the Women's Health and Pediatrics Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each complete with hints and explanations. Ready yourself for a successful exam!

Jaundice in infants can be caused by several factors that influence bilirubin levels in the bloodstream. Poor feeding can lead to insufficient intake of breast milk or formula, which can result in dehydration or inadequate caloric intake. This lack of intake may impede the elimination of bilirubin, a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells, and subsequently lead to jaundice.

Cephalohematoma, which occurs when blood accumulates between the skull and the periosteum due to trauma during delivery, can also contribute to jaundice. The breakdown of the red blood cells in the pooled blood increases the amount of bilirubin in the body, potentially resulting in jaundice as the liver works to clear it from the bloodstream.

Delayed cord clamping can lead to higher blood volume and elevated bilirubin levels due to the increased red cell mass in the newborn. Normally, the newborn's body has the capacity to manage this bilirubin production, but it can sometimes overwhelm the liver's ability to process it, especially during the first few days of life.

Thus, all these factors together can result in jaundice in infants. Each factor contributes to increased bilirubin levels through different mechanisms, underscoring the importance of monitoring newborns for jaundice in various contexts.

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