Phototherapy: safe and effective use of light in neonatal care

Abstract

Light is a very effective tool for the treatment of neonates with problems at birth. It includes different wavelengths that can cause damage for different reasons when misused. Taking into account the characteristics of the light rays applied to neonates is important in the field of phototherapy, for the application of good clinical practices and prudent avoidance, in risk management. In this chapter, research on the application of phototherapy will be presented, highlighting the non-visible risks of using light in incubators and thermal cradles. In addition, recommendations will be made about specific aspects regarding the use and application of light for both neonate. The results show that the application of phototherapy increases the levels of electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, it must be taken into account that, although it is of vital importance for the care of preterm neonates, artificial light is a tool whose operation depends on electrical energy and represents a risk that could subsequently affect their state of health.