A nurse monitors the blood glucose level of a term infant of a diabetic mother. If the level is 48 mg/dL, what should the nurse do next?

Monitoring blood glucose levels, especially in infants of diabetic mothers, is crucial due to the risk of hypoglycemia. A blood glucose level of 48 mg/dL is indeed lower than the normal range for newborns; however, the typical approach in a clinical setting involves first ensuring consistent monitoring of the infant's blood glucose.

Continuing to monitor the blood glucose level allows the healthcare team to confirm whether the level stabilizes, fluctuates, or worsens. This repeated observation can provide essential data that leads to informed decisions regarding treatment interventions. If the blood glucose level remains low or decreases further, the nurse may then decide to intervene based on established protocols and clinical signs.

Separately, administering glucose supplementation, notifying the healthcare provider, or preparing for a blood transfusion would generally be considered if the situation warrants further action based on follow-up results or the infant's clinical status, but initial management emphasizes close observation in this context.