management of the neonate

Last reviewed 01/2018

Where indicated for reasons such as dystocia, the neonates of diabetics are delivered by caesarian section to reduce the stress of the the delivery. After the delivery, the management should involve:

• appropriate resuscitation including warmth and oxygen
• early feeding: one hour after delivery to minimise the risk of hypoglycaemia
• monitor for hypoglycaemia:
• hourly for four hours
• four hourly for 20 hours
• if hypoglycaemia develops a continuous infusion of dextrose is used, instead of a bolus dose; this is because the release of insulin is biphasic in response to a bolus in neonates - and thus would cause a reactive hypoglycaemia.

Breast feeding can be commenced when the mother wishes.