The nurse caring for an infant born at 36 weeks of gestation assesses tremors and a weak cry. The nurse is aware that these symptoms indicate what?

A. Hypoglycemia: Tremors and a weak cry in a late preterm infant are classic early signs of low blood glucose. Infants born at 36 weeks have limited glycogen stores and immature metabolic regulation, making them vulnerable to hypoglycemia in the first hours to days of life. B. Renal failure: Renal failure in neonates typically presents with decreased urine output, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances rather than tremors and weak cry. While preterm infants are at risk for renal complications, these neurologic signs point to metabolic disturbances. C. Necrotizing enterocolitis: NEC usually manifests with feeding intolerance, abdominal distention, bloody stools, and lethargy. Tremors and weak cry are not characteristic early indicators of NEC. D. Respiratory distress syndrome: RDS presents primarily with tachypnea, grunting, nasal flaring, and retractions due to surfactant deficiency. Neurologic symptoms like tremors and weak cry are not typical initial signs, making RDS an unlikely explanation for the findings.