Increasing Lecture Material

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 134 views

The Level of Knowledge of USU Medical Students in the Class of 2017 Concerning the Relationship of Birth Age and Jaundice Neonatorum

Introduction

The infant mortality rate in Indonesia remains a pressing concern, with various factors contributing to this issue. Premature birth, low birth weight, asphyxia, birth trauma, congenital disorders, and infections are some of the common causes of infant mortality. One condition that is frequently encountered in newborns is jaundice neonatorum, characterized by a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes due to excessive bilirubin accumulation. This condition is more prevalent in premature babies than full-term babies.

Background

Jaundice neonatorum is a condition that requires prompt attention and proper management to prevent complications. As future healthcare professionals, it is essential for medical students to possess a good understanding of this condition, particularly the relationship between birth age and jaundice neonatorum. This knowledge will enable them to provide accurate education to patients' families and administer appropriate treatment.

Methodology

This non-experimental quantitative research aimed to determine the level of knowledge of students from the Faculty of Medicine, University of North Sumatra (USU) in the class of 2017 regarding jaundice neonatorum, specifically the relationship between birth age and this condition. A questionnaire was used as the primary data collection tool, and consecutive sampling was employed, involving 144 respondents.

Results

The results of this study revealed that most students (53%) possessed good knowledge about the relationship between birth age and jaundice neonatorum. However, knowledge of the definitions, etiology, pathophysiology, and risk factors for jaundice neonatorum was still in the medium category (57%). Conversely, knowledge of examination, management, and complications of jaundice neonatorum was higher, with 89% of students having good knowledge.

Discussion

The findings of this study indicate that the level of knowledge of USU Faculty of Medicine students in the class of 2017 concerning jaundice neonatorum as a whole is in the good category. Nevertheless, there is still a need for efforts to increase their understanding of certain aspects, such as etiology and risk factors. It is essential for medical students to possess a comprehensive understanding of this condition to provide optimal healthcare services.

Importance of Knowledge

Increased knowledge about jaundice neonatorum is crucial for prospective doctors. With a good understanding, they can provide accurate education to patients' families and administer precise and appropriate treatment for these conditions. This knowledge will enable them to make informed decisions and provide high-quality care to patients.

Efforts to Increase Student Knowledge

Several efforts can be made to increase student knowledge about jaundice neonatorum:

Increasing Lecture Material

Lecture material on jaundice neonatorum needs to be enriched with cases and simulation examples of handling. This will provide students with a more comprehensive understanding of the condition and enable them to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Group Discussion

Discussion of the case of jaundice neonatorum in groups can increase student interaction and understanding. This will facilitate the exchange of ideas and promote a deeper understanding of the condition.

Utilization of Learning Media

The use of video education, simulations, and online learning platforms can make the material more interesting and easy to understand. This will engage students and promote a more interactive learning experience.

Clinical Visit

Direct experience in the neonatology clinic can provide a deeper understanding of the neonatorum jaundice. This will enable students to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting and gain practical experience.

Conclusion

With a directed effort, it is expected that the level of knowledge of USU medical students about jaundice neonatorum can continue to increase, so they are ready to provide optimal health services for patients. It is essential for medical students to possess a comprehensive understanding of this condition to provide high-quality care to patients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Jaundice Neonatorum

Q: What is jaundice neonatorum?

A: Jaundice neonatorum is a condition characterized by a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes due to excessive bilirubin accumulation in newborns. This condition is more prevalent in premature babies than full-term babies.

Q: What are the causes of jaundice neonatorum?

A: The causes of jaundice neonatorum are diverse and include prematurity, low birth weight, asphyxia, birth trauma, congenital disorders, and infections.

Q: What are the risk factors for jaundice neonatorum?

A: The risk factors for jaundice neonatorum include prematurity, low birth weight, and congenital disorders.

Q: How is jaundice neonatorum diagnosed?

A: Jaundice neonatorum is diagnosed through a physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.

Q: What are the complications of jaundice neonatorum?

A: The complications of jaundice neonatorum include kernicterus, a condition that can cause brain damage and other neurological problems.

Q: How is jaundice neonatorum treated?

A: Jaundice neonatorum is treated with phototherapy, which involves exposure to a special light that helps break down bilirubin in the blood.

Q: What is the importance of knowledge about jaundice neonatorum for medical students?

A: Knowledge about jaundice neonatorum is crucial for medical students as it enables them to provide accurate education to patients' families and administer precise and appropriate treatment for these conditions.

Q: What are some efforts that can be made to increase student knowledge about jaundice neonatorum?

A: Some efforts that can be made to increase student knowledge about jaundice neonatorum include increasing lecture material, group discussion, utilization of learning media, and clinical visit.

Q: What is the expected outcome of increasing student knowledge about jaundice neonatorum?

A: The expected outcome of increasing student knowledge about jaundice neonatorum is that medical students will be able to provide optimal health services for patients and make informed decisions in real-world scenarios.

Q: What are some future directions for research on jaundice neonatorum?

A: Some future directions for research on jaundice neonatorum include investigating the effectiveness of different treatment modalities, exploring the relationship between jaundice neonatorum and other conditions, and developing new diagnostic tools and technologies.

Q: What are some recommendations for healthcare providers and parents regarding jaundice neonatorum?

A: Some recommendations for healthcare providers and parents regarding jaundice neonatorum include being aware of the risk factors and symptoms of the condition, seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms occur, and following treatment recommendations carefully.

Q: What are some resources for further information on jaundice neonatorum?

A: Some resources for further information on jaundice neonatorum include reputable health organizations, academic journals, and online educational platforms.