VATI Maternal Newborn Assessment Related

Review VATI Maternal Newborn Assessment related questions and content

Three hours after birth, a newborn of a mother with diabetes becomes jittery, has weak, high- pitched cry , and exhibits irregular respirations. The nurse recognizes that these signs are often associated with:

  • A. Hypovolemia
  • B. Hypocalcemia
  • C. Hypoglycemia
  • D. Hyperglycemia
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The signs described in the scenario - jitteriness, weak high-pitched cry, irregular respirations - are indicative of hypoglycemia in a newborn. Babies born to mothers with diabetes are at risk for hypoglycemia due to their exposure to high blood sugar levels in utero. After birth, when the baby is separated from the mother's blood supply, their own insulin production may lead to a sudden drop in blood glucose levels.