The Medical Center Health System Foundation Board has approved the funding for two Drager Jaundice Meters and two calibration and battery stands for the Labor & Delivery department at Medical Center Hospital. The funds will come from Children’s Miracle Network and the total cost of these important meters is just over $17,000.
According to a news release, this equipment will be used to measure transcutaneous bilirubin levels on all newborns delivered at the facility as well as follow up appointments with lactation. This testing is required for all newborns prior to discharge. The TCB machine tests the newborn’s jaundice level and helps to determine if the newborn will need phototherapy or further monitoring.
“The new jaundice meters are going to be a great addition to our unit,” Tausha Martinez, Director of Postpartum at MCH, said in the release. “They will provide immediate results for transcutaneous bilirubin levels, allowing quicker response for further testing and/or monitoring.”