A nurse is caring for a newborn who is large for gestational age and is 12 hours old. Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor based on the client's condition?

Choice A rationale Bilirubin monitoring is critical for jaundice due to hemolysis, often seen in ABO incompatibility or cephalohematoma. While Large for Gestational Age (LGA) infants can have polycythemia, hypoglycemia is a more immediate and life-threatening risk that requires priority monitoring in the first hours of life. The normal total bilirubin range is typically less than 5 mg/dL in the first 24 hours. Choice B rationale LGA infants are often born to mothers with uncontrolled or gestational diabetes, leading to fetal hyperinsulinism. After birth, the maternal glucose supply is cut off, and the high insulin levels persist, causing a rapid and profound drop in the newborn's blood glucose, hence hypoglycemia is a major concern. The normal newborn glucose range is 40 to 60 mg/dL and should be monitored. Choice C rationale White blood cell (WBC) count is primarily monitored to detect neonatal sepsis or infection. While all newborns are at risk, the LGA classification does not inherently place them at a higher, unique risk for infection compared to the immediate metabolic derangement risks like hypoglycemia. The normal WBC count range is 9,000 to 30,000 cells/mm. Choice D rationale Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs) are used to assess the newborn's respiratory status and acid-base balance, particularly in respiratory distress syndrome or persistent pulmonary hypertension. While LGA infants can experience birth trauma or meconium aspiration, ABG monitoring is not routine unless significant respiratory symptoms are present.