Perinatal asphyxia and neonatal hypoglycemia: the importance of nursing management.

Abstract

Hypoglycemia is a common sequel of neonatal‐perinatal asphyxia. As hypoglycemia may result in irreversible and severe neurologic aftermath, its detection and treatment are major goals of neonatal care. The maintenance of adequate blood glucose concentrations, during the course of and following asphyxia, is important to prevent the adverse effects of hypoglycemia on the brain. A routine screening program designed for infants at risk for hypoglycemia is a preventive measure against loss of human potential and economic waste. The nurse is the primary manager and initiator of such a screening program, one that can exist in harmony with family‐centered maternity care.