What is the threshold of blood glucose for administering D10 to infants under 4 weeks?

The threshold for administering D10 to infants under 4 weeks of age is typically set at a blood glucose level of 35 mg/dL. This is based on clinical guidelines which indicate that infants in this age group are particularly vulnerable to hypoglycemia, and intervention is warranted when blood glucose levels fall below this threshold.

Administering D10 (a 10% dextrose solution) helps to quickly elevate blood glucose levels to ensure adequate energy supply to the brain and other vital organs. Detecting hypoglycemia early and treating it appropriately is crucial in neonates due to the potential for severe complications, such as neurological damage, if left untreated.

In clinical practice, monitoring and timely intervention are essential, especially since neonatal glucose utilization and metabolism can differ markedly from older children and adults. Therefore, establishing a precise threshold like 35 mg/dL serves as an important guideline for healthcare providers in managing the health and safety of newborns at risk of hypoglycemia.