Assessment and Management of Newborn Complications Quizlet Related

Review Assessment and Management of Newborn Complications Quizlet related questions and content

Which patient should be assessed first?

  • A. Infant with a blood glucose level of 45 mg/dL, maternal history of gestational diabetes
  • B. Infant who is plotted on the growth chart between the 75th and 85th percentile for weight and length and the 50th percentile for head circumference
  • C. Infant born at 42 weeks gestation to 40-year-old mother who was otherwise healthy during pregnancy and at the time of delivery
  • D. Infant born at 38 weeks gestation with a green stain and bruising noted on initial assessment at delivery
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. An infant with a blood glucose level of 45 mg/dL and a maternal history of gestational diabetes should be assessed first to rule out hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening in newborns. Hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, brain damage, or even death if not promptly treated. Infants born to mothers with gestational diabetes are at higher risk for hypoglycemia due to their own insulin production in response to high maternal glucose levels. Therefore, immediate assessment and intervention are crucial.

Choice B is incorrect because growth parameters within normal ranges do not indicate an immediate need for assessment. Choice C is also incorrect as the mother's age and gestational age do not necessarily indicate an urgent need for assessment. Choice D is incorrect as the presence of a green stain and bruising may indicate meconium aspiration syndrome, but hypoglycemia poses a more immediate threat to the infant's health.