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
Seek emergency care for a jaundiced newborn who is floppy, unusually stiff, arching the back, making a high-pitched cry, having breathing pauses, or having a seizure.
Call emergency services for a seizure, severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey skin, or unresponsiveness.
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
Get urgent same-day medical advice if a newborn:
Develops jaundice during the first 24 hours after birth
Becomes more yellow, especially on the abdomen, arms, legs, palms, or soles
Is difficult to wake or is not feeding well
Has fewer wet diapers or signs of dehydration
Still appears jaundiced beyond the expected newborn period
More urgent assessment is needed for repeated choking, possible aspiration, sudden loss of skills, severe pain, breathing problems, or a new seizure.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For someone living with established kernicterus, routine appointments are appropriate for gradual changes in movement, hearing, equipment needs, nutrition, or communication.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Kernicterus. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.