A nurse is preparing to administer intravenous glucose to a newborn whose mother has gestational diabetes and who has hypoglycemia.

The nurse should recognize that this intervention is necessary to prevent which of the following complications?

The correct answer is choice D. Notify the provider.

A blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) after a meal is too high for a pregnant woman with gestational diabetes and indicates poor glycemic control.

The provider should be informed of this result and may adjust the woman’s treatment plan accordingly.

Choice A is wrong because insulin is not always prescribed for gestational diabetes.

Some women can manage their blood sugar levels with diet and exercise alone.

Insulin should only be administered as prescribed by the provider and not based on a single test result.

Choice B is wrong because drinking water will not lower the blood glucose level significantly.

Water can help prevent dehydration and constipation, which are common problems in pregnancy, but it does not affect insulin sensitivity or glucose metabolism.

Choice C is wrong because repeating the test in 15 minutes will not change the outcome.

A blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) after a meal is clearly abnormal and needs immediate attention.

Delaying the notification of the provider may increase the risk of complications for the woman and her baby.

According to Diabetic.org, the normal blood glucose levels for gestational diabetes are:

• Fasting: less than 95 mg/dL (5.3 mmol/L)

• One hour after a meal: less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)

• Two hours after a meal: less than 120 mg/dL (6.7 mmol/L)

These levels may vary slightly depending on the clinic or lab, but

The correct answer is choice A. The woman should check her blood glucose levels four times a day to monitor and manage her condition.This will help her avoid complications such as ketoacidosis, hypoglycemia, or fetal macrosomia.

Choice B is wrong because drinking juice or soda can increase blood glucose levels and worsen hyperglycemia.The woman should drink water or sugar-free beverages if she feels thirsty.

Choice C is wrong because vaginal discharge or itching may indicate a yeast infection, which is more common in women with diabetes, but not a sign of hyperglycemia.The woman should report any signs of infection to her doctor, but also check her blood glucose levels regularly.

Choice D is wrong because stopping insulin or oral medication after delivery can cause blood glucose levels to rise and lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition.The woman should consult with her doctor before making any changes to her medication regimen.

Normal ranges for blood glucose levels during pregnancy are:

• Before meals: 60-99 mg/dL

• One hour after meals: 100-129 mg/dL

• Two hours after meals: <120 mg/dL