Author(s):
M. Priya, Sharmila V., Arun Babu T., S.K. Mohanasundari
Email(s):
roshinikrishitha@gmail.com
DOI:
10.52711/2454-2660.2026.00007 
Address:
M. Priya1, Sharmila V.2, Arun Babu T.3, S.K. Mohanasundari4
1Tutor /CI (Nursing), College of Nursing, AIIMS Mangalagiri, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India.
2Prof and HOD Dept of OBG, AIIMS Mangalagiri, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India.
3Prof and HOD Dept of Pediatrics, AIIMS Mangalagiri, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India.
4Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, AIIMS Bibinagar, Y.Bhuvanagiri, Telangana, India.
*Corresponding Author
Published In:
Volume - 14,
Issue - 1,
Year - 2026
ABSTRACT:
Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, including macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, polycythemia, and respiratory distress. Timely nursing interventions, including early glucose monitoring and feeding support, play a pivotal role in preventing complications. Case Summary: A 35-year-old multigravida woman (G3P1A2L1) was diagnosed with GDM at 24 weeks via oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Initially managed with medical nutrition therapy, she later required insulin in the third trimester due to persistent hyperglycemia. At 38+2 weeks, she delivered a 3.7 kg male infant via normal vaginal delivery. The neonate was closely monitored for hypoglycemia, with blood glucose values of 54, 58, 54, and 54 mg/dL at 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours of life, respectively. He also exhibited borderline polycythemia (hematocrit 60%), which improved with exclusive breastfeeding. Nursing interventions included early initiation of breastfeeding, vigilant glucose and hematocrit monitoring, hydration assessment, and parental counseling. The mother’s postnatal blood glucose normalized by the third day, and she was counseled on lifestyle modification and follow-up to prevent future Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: This case underscores the critical role of nurses in the early recognition and management of neonatal complications related to GDM. Proactive glucose screening, feeding support, hematocrit monitoring, and caregiver education are essential to reducing neonatal morbidity and ensuring long-term health outcomes.
Cite this article:
M. Priya, Sharmila V., Arun Babu T., S.K. Mohanasundari. Nursing Care Challenges in a GDM Mother with a Hypoglycemic Neonate: A Case-Based Insight. International Journal of Nursing Education and Research. 2026;14(1):36-8. doi: 10.52711/2454-2660.2026.00007
Cite(Electronic):
M. Priya, Sharmila V., Arun Babu T., S.K. Mohanasundari. Nursing Care Challenges in a GDM Mother with a Hypoglycemic Neonate: A Case-Based Insight. International Journal of Nursing Education and Research. 2026;14(1):36-8. doi: 10.52711/2454-2660.2026.00007 Available on: https://ijneronline.com/AbstractView.aspx?PID=2026-14-1-7
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