A nurse is assessing a newborn whose mother had gestational diabetes mellitus. The nurse should monitor for which of the following findings as a manifestation of hypoglycemia?

Choice A rationale:

A client with placenta previa and a hematocrit of 36% should be monitored closely due to the risk of bleeding, but it is not an immediate priority compared to the client with hyperemesis gravidarum and a low sodium level.

Choice B rationale:

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of morning sickness characterized by excessive vomiting, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. A sodium level of 110 mEq/L is dangerously low and requires immediate attention to correct the electrolyte disturbance and prevent further complications.

Choice C rationale:

A client with diabetes mellitus and an HbA1c of 5.8% is within a normal range, indicating good glycemic control. This client's condition can be managed on an outpatient basis and does not require urgent assessment compared to the others.

Choice D rationale:

A client with preeclampsia and a creatinine level of 1.1 mg/dL should be closely monitored, but it is not the priority over the client with hyperemesis gravidarum and severe electrolyte imbalance.

Choice A rationale:

Abdominal distention is not a typical manifestation of hypoglycemia in a newborn. Instead, it can be associated with gastrointestinal issues or other conditions affecting the abdominal organs.

Choice B rationale:

Petechiae are small, pinpoint purple or red spots that appear on the skin due to broken capillaries. They are not related to hypoglycemia and can be caused by various factors such as blood clotting disorders or infections.

Choice C rationale:

Increased muscle tone is not typically associated with hypoglycemia in a newborn. Instead, hypoglycemic babies may exhibit decreased muscle tone, lethargy, and poor feeding.

Choice D rationale:

Jitteriness is a common manifestation of hypoglycemia in newborns. It is characterized by rhythmic tremors, often involving the face and extremities. This occurs because the brain relies heavily on glucose for energy, and low blood sugar levels can affect neurological function, leading to jitteriness. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent further complications.