A nurse is caring for a newborn in the neonatal unit. Review the following exhibits to answer the questions. Exhibits A nurse evaluates the findings for this newborn. Indicate whether each finding is consistent with Hypoglycemia, Neonatal Sepsis, Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.
Explanation & Rationale
Jitteriness: Jitteriness can be seen in hypoglycemia (due to low blood sugar), neonatal sepsis (which causes systemic effects including jitteriness), and neonatal abstinence syndrome (due to withdrawal from maternal substances). Poor feeding: Poor feeding is consistent with hypoglycemia (due to low energy reserves), neonatal sepsis (due to general ill-health), and neonatal abstinence syndrome (as a withdrawal symptom). Petechiae on the chest: Petechiae is a sign of neonatal sepsis, which can result from bacterial infections or other causes affecting the clotting system. It is not typically seen in hypoglycemia, neonatal abstinence syndrome, or hyperbilirubinemia. Blood glucose 35 mg/dL: This is a hallmark sign of hypoglycemia, indicating a dangerously low level of glucose in the blood. High-pitched cry: A high-pitched cry is a classic symptom of neonatal abstinence syndrome, often seen in infants withdrawing from opioids or other substances. It is not a typical sign of hypoglycemia, neonatal sepsis, or hyperbilirubinemia.