Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services if the baby cannot be woken, has a seizure, stops breathing, turns blue, becomes very floppy or stiff, or repeatedly arches their neck and back with a high-pitched cry.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Arrange urgent same-day medical assessment if:
Jaundice appears during the first 24 hours after birth
Yellow coloring is deepening or spreading
The baby is feeding poorly or has fewer wet nappies
Urine is dark enough to stain the nappy
Stools are pale, chalky, gray, or white
Jaundice continues beyond 14 days in a full-term baby or 21 days in a premature baby
A baby younger than 3 months has a temperature of 38°C or higher
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine follow-up, attend planned bilirubin, weight, or feeding checks even if the yellow color appears to be improving.
Contact the baby’s maternity or healthcare team if a planned check was missed or feeding has become more difficult.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Jaundice in newborns. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.