A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus delivered a fetus weighing ...

[Bob-Dole]

A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus delivered a fetus weighing 7 lb, 14 oz 2 hours ago. The infant's blood glucose is currently 45 mg/dL. What should the nurse do?
 
  1. Begin an IV of 10 dextrose.
  2. Document the findings in the chart.
  3. Feed the baby 1 oz of formula.
  4. Recheck the blood sugar in 4 hours.

Question 2

A 38-week newborn is small for gestational age (SGA). Which nursing intervention should be included in the care of this newborn?
 
  1. Assess for facial paralysis
  2. Maintain a warm environment
  3. Monitor for feeding difficulties
  4. Monitor for signs of hyperglycemia

[meryzewe]

Answer to Question 1

2
Explanation:
1. The blood glucose of 45 mg/dL is considered a normal blood sugar reading for a neonate. No IV is needed.
2. A blood sugar of 45 mg/dL is a normal finding; documentation is an appropriate action.
3. Feeding would be appropriate if the infant's blood sugar were below 40, but this infant's reading is 45 mg/dL.
4. Infants of diabetic mothers should be fed frequently and should have their blood sugar assessed frequently. Four hours is too long a time frame.

Answer to Question 2

2
Explanation:
1. Large-for-gestational age (LGA) newborns often are prone to birth trauma, such as facial paralysis, due to cephalopelvic disproportion.
2. Hypothermia is a common complication of the SGA newborn; therefore, the newborn's environment must remain warm to decrease heat loss.
3. LGA newborns are more difficult to arouse to a quiet alert state and can have feeding difficulties.
4. SGA newborns are more prone to hypoglycemia.