In a term infant born to a mother with diabetes, what should the nurse monitor closely during the neonatal period?

Monitoring blood glucose levels in a term infant born to a mother with diabetes is critical due to the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia. Infants of diabetic mothers, particularly those with poorly controlled blood sugar levels, can have high levels of insulin after birth, which can lead to a rapid drop in blood glucose. This is because they were exposed to higher glucose levels in utero, stimulating their own insulin production. After delivery, the sudden change in environment and the absence of the maternal glucose supply can result in low blood sugar levels in the infant.

Immediate assessment and ongoing monitoring of the blood glucose levels are necessary to prevent any potential neurological damage or other complications associated with hypoglycemia. Maintaining normal blood glucose levels is vital for the infant's overall health and well-being during the neonatal period.

While feeding patterns, temperature regulation, and skin color are also important aspects of monitoring a newborn, they are secondary in this context to the critical need for blood glucose monitoring, especially for infants with a known history of maternal diabetes.