Plastic blankets and heat shields decrease transmission of phototherapy light.
An in vitro study showed that the use of transparent plastic insulation to decrease heat loss from newborn infants substantially decreases the transmission of phototherapy light. The decrease is proportional to the number of plastic layers between the light source and the baby because of reflection from the surface of the plastic. This increases if the surface is irregular. Thickness and the type of plastic used had no effect.
D001512:Bedding and Linens; D001833:Body Temperature Regulation; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D010789:Phototherapy; D010969:Plastics
D010969:Plastics