At what age should the blood sugar nadir typically be monitored in a newborn?

Monitoring the blood sugar nadir in a newborn is crucial, especially for those at risk of hypoglycemia. The recommended timing for this monitoring is typically at 1-2 hours after birth. During this period, newborns are adjusting to life outside the womb, and their glucose levels can fluctuate significantly.

At 1-2 hours, healthcare providers can assess whether the newborn's blood glucose levels have stabilized and are within the normal range. This early monitoring allows for timely interventions if the blood sugar is found to be low, helping to prevent potential complications such as neurological damage or developmental issues that can arise from prolonged hypoglycemia.

Later timings, such as at 3-4 hours or beyond, may not provide as immediate a response for at-risk infants, and waiting until 0-1 hours may be too early, as the infant's system is still acclimating. Therefore, monitoring at 1-2 hours strikes a balance between ensuring that the newborn's physiological status is adequately assessed and allowing for necessary interventions to keep the infant healthy.