A nurse is caring for a newborn who is 8 hours old.
Based on the information in the newborn’s medical record, the nurse determines that the newborn is at risk for developing which of the following complications?

Choice A rationale

Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is a condition that is most commonly seen in individuals with diabetes. Symptoms can include frequent urination, increased thirst, and increased hunger. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Choice B rationale

Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the total amount of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, or a lowered ability of the blood to carry oxygen. Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, irregular heartbeats, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, and chest pain.

Choice C rationale

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, a hormone needed to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy. The far more common type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin.

Choice D rationale

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition in which the long-term force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease. If the nurse is reviewing the client’s medical records and actions to be taken, it is likely that the client is experiencing hypertension.

Choice A rationale

Waiting until the next appointment could potentially put both the mother and the baby at risk. Leakage of vaginal fluid could indicate premature rupture of membranes, which can lead to infection or premature labor.

Choice B rationale

While fetal movement is a good sign, it does not rule out potential complications associated with leakage of vaginal fluid. Therefore, this advice could lead to a delay in necessary medical intervention.

Choice C rationale

This is the most appropriate response. Leakage of vaginal fluid in a pregnant woman could be a sign of premature rupture of membranes, which can lead to complications such as infection or premature labor. Immediate medical attention is necessary to assess the situation and take appropriate action.

Choice D rationale

Asking the client to wait and see if the leakage changes could potentially delay necessary medical intervention. It’s important to seek immediate medical attention to assess the situation and take appropriate action.