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Jaundice lamps: Analysis of the “2000 hours of use” criterion

Abstract:

Jaundice is a bilirubin excess in humans, usually newborns, but also occurs in adults. In this paper we detail the measurements made in an experimental jaundice lamps device, containing a portable fiber optics single monochromator spectroradiometer Avantes, to measure the spectral irradiance in the visible and near UV (250-800 nm). These measurements were performed to determine the actual emission of the lamps at the end of their useful life when they are written off in a public maternity hospital in Rosario city and consequently, whether it is feasible to extend or shorten their time of use. For this study, four lamps were used and one new as a reference. A Phillips TL20W/52 model were employed. Given the high cost of the lamps and in order to extend their life, we propose a continuous monitoring of the intensity level at the site of newborns patients by photodetector, for the purposes of: a) to change the exposure time interval to maintain the dose when a reduction in the intensity is detected and b) to determine the lifetime of the lamps.