Why is micro glucose lab done on newborns?

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Sep 17, 2011

Most of the time, to rule out hypoglycemia. In very sick premature newborns, stress hyperglycemia could also be a concern.

You'll find lots of information out there on hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia in neonates. What have you found so far? Is this in reference to a particular patient? What are your thoughts about potential rationales?

Double-Helix, BSN, RN · Sep 17, 2011

Newborns are very susceptible to hypoglycemia, especially in mothers with gestational diabetes. The reason being that they are used to the mother's glucose supply, as well as their own, circulating in their blood. So they make extra insulin. When the maternal glucose is withdrawn, the baby can have an over-production of insulin and become hypoglycemic.

Student2001 · Sep 17, 2011

mother does not have diabetes but she is obese. she had a c-section. the baby`s glucose was 68.

Double-Helix, BSN, RN · Sep 17, 2011

Gestational diabetes is not always diagnosed prior to delivery. Obese women also have a tendancy to comsume more glucose, which can lead to rebound hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia in newborns can be serious if untreated, so it's important that all baby's be tested.

Look up normal glucose levels for newborns and compare it with your result.