Assessment of Medical Team Knowledge on Sun Exposure and Neonatal Jaundice in a Hospital in Southern Brazil

INTRODUCTION: Sun exposure in the neonatal period for the reduction of jaundice is contraindicated by the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics. In addition to not being an effective form of treatment, it can lead to more severe consequences, such as skin cancer and sunburn. OBJECTIVE: To assess the medical teams knowledge about sun exposure during the neonatal period, specifically in relation to reducing neonatal jaundice, and to provide participants with updated knowledge on the subject. METHOD: A observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study conducted from October 2020 to August 2021, based on a questionnaire administered to physicians of newborns in a maternity hospital in southern Brazil. RESULTS: Regarding medical knowledge about sun exposure in the neonatal period, 24 (51.1%) physicians responded that the frequency of sun exposure should be daily, 17 (37.0%) believed that the best time for sunbathing was before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m., 18 (38.3%) stated that the duration of exposure to sunlight should be 10 to 15 minutes, and 21 (44.7%) professionals indicated that there is no recommendation for such exposure. CONCLUSION: There is a misconception among some physicians regarding neonatal sun exposure, especially for reducing jaundice. Therefore, continuous medical education is essential.