What are the normal ranges for blood glucose levels in newborns?

The normal range for blood glucose levels in newborns is critical to understand, as maintaining appropriate glucose levels is essential for their health. The correct answer indicates a range of 40 to 150 mg/dL, which accommodates variations that may occur soon after birth and during different states of the infant, such as feeding or fasting.

Newborns commonly experience physiological fluctuations due to factors like maternal diabetes or pre- and postnatal conditions, making it vital to monitor their glucose levels closely. The range of 40 to 150 mg/dL reflects the acceptable levels that health care providers aim for in order to prevent conditions such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, which can pose serious risks to the newborn's developing brain and overall health.

The other ranges represented in the incorrect choices do not align with established medical guidelines for newborns. For instance, lower thresholds could risk overlooking hypoglycemic states that would require intervention, while higher thresholds might misclassify healthy newborns as hyperglycemic, potentially leading to unnecessary treatment. Understanding the typical blood glucose range for neonates helps ensure vigilant monitoring and appropriate responses to their metabolic needs.