Effects of clear topical ointment on transepidermal water loss in jaundiced pretermm infants receiving phototherapy

Abstract

Thirty jaundiced preterm infants, gestational age < or = 34 weeks and postnatal age < or = 7 days, receiving conventional phototherapy for hyperbilirubinemia of prematurity in incubators were included. 1.5 ml of clear topical ointment was applied on the right side of the trunk and extremities while the left side was used as control. Data collection included transepidermal water loss (TEWL), ambient temperature and ambient humidity, before and at 30 minutes, 4-6 hours after application of the ointment during phototherapy. The measurements were executed both the right and left side in 3 positions; upper arm, back, lower leg. TEWL was reduced by 29 per cent (P value < 0.002) and 26 per cent (P value < 0.011) at 30 minutes and 4-6 hours after the application of clear topical ointment, respectively. Ambient temperature and humidity were not significantly different (P value > 0.18). We concluded that application of clear topical ointment on the skin of jaundiced preterm infants receiving conventional phototherapy in incubators reduced TEWL significantly.