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Neonatal hypoglycaemia – seizures — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyNeonatalNeonatal hypoglycaemia – seizuresRACP Paediatrics

A term neonate presents at 36 hours with jitteriness and seizures. Point-of-care glucose is 0.8 mmol/L. The infant is a normal birth weight with no risk factors for hypoglycaemia. What is the most appropriate immediate treatment?

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Correct answer: B — IV 10% dextrose bolus 2 mL/kg

Neonatal hypoglycaemia with seizures requires immediate IV 10% dextrose bolus (2 mL/kg = 200 mg/kg) followed by a continuous dextrose infusion. Blood glucose should be rechecked within 30 minutes. If high glucose infusion rates are required (>8-10 mg/kg/min), hyperinsulinism should be suspected and a critical sample taken during hypoglycaemia.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – Neonatal Hypoglycaemia CPG; RACP Paediatric Curriculum – Neonatology