👶 Rationale: Neonatal Jaundice 👶

Neonatal jaundice is a common condition found in newborns, in which bilirubin levels are elevated.

This condition is mainly caused by excessive breakdown of red blood cells (RBCs) (hemolysis).

The question is – Which of the following is NOT a cause of neonatal jaundice?

✅ Correct Answer: (a) Sickle cell anaemia

In Sickle cell anaemia, symptoms are not present at birth.

Newborns primarily have Fetal Hemoglobin (HbF), which prevents sickling.

Therefore, symptoms of sickle cell anaemia appear after 4–6 months, not at birth.

For this reason, sickle cell anaemia is not a cause of neonatal jaundice.

Why are the other options correct?

(b) β-Thalassemia → This is a hemolytic disorder, in which RBCs break down, which can increase bilirubin levels and cause neonatal jaundice.

(c) G6PD deficiency → This is an enzyme deficiency, which causes hemolysis and is a common cause of neonatal jaundice.

(d) Rh incompatibility → Incompatibility between the mother’s and baby’s blood groups causes hemolytic disease of the newborn, which can lead to severe neonatal jaundice.

✅ Exam Point:
Not a cause of neonatal jaundice →
➤ Sickle cell anaemia
(Symptoms appear after 4–6 months due to HbF)

📌 Disclaimer: This information is for nursing exam preparation. For clinical practice, follow standard textbooks.

💚 Exam Objective Nursing – Asha D
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