An interventional cross-sectional study of electrolyte levels in newborns with hyperbilirubinemia before and after phototherapy in a tertiary care hospital in central India

Introduction This study protocol outlines a comprehensive investigation into the impact of phototherapy on electrolyte levels in newborns with hyperbilirubinemia. With a focus on neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and AVBR Hospital, Sawangi, Wardha, Central India, the research aims to contribute valuable insights into the physiological changes associated with this common neonatal condition. The study’s introduction highlights the rationale, significance, and gaps in current knowledge, emphasising the need for a detailed exploration of electrolyte dynamics before and after phototherapy. Method The methodology involves a descriptive, interventional cross-sectional design with a calculated sample size of 264 neonates. Standardised protocols for data collection, including serum electrolyte analysis and urine-specific gravity assessment, will be employed. Inclusion and exclusion criteria are clearly defined to ensure a homogenous study population. Statistical analyses, utilising R Studio 4.3.1 will encompass descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, correlation analysis, and multivariate analysis to explore the nuanced relationships between variables. Rigorous ethical considerations and transparency in reporting will guide the data collection process. Expected Result Anticipated outcomes include a nuanced understanding of changes in serum electrolyte levels following phototherapy and the correlation of these changes with the treatment duration. The study is poised to shed light on the impact of gestational age and birth weight on electrolyte responses. Through rigorous statistical analysis, the research aims to provide evidence-based insights that can inform neonatal care protocols. The anticipated findings hold the potential to influence clinical practices, enhancing the quality of care provided to newborns with hyperbilirubinemia undergoing phototherapy.