A neonate is born at 36 weeks with a birth weight of 1.8 kg. The birth weight is below the 3rd percentile for gestational age. Which complication is this neonate at HIGHEST risk for in the immediate postnatal period?

• A Hyperglycemia
• B Hypernatremia
• C Hypercalcemia
• D Hypoglycemia ✓

Explanation

This neonate is small for gestational age (SGA). SGA neonates have depleted glycogen stores and reduced gluconeogenic substrate, making them highly susceptible to hypoglycemia in the first 24-72 hours of life. Early and frequent feeds or dextrose supplementation are essential. Hypoglycemia in neonates is defined as blood glucose <45 mg/dL and can cause neurological injury if untreated.

Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.