Which is the most appropriate nursing intervention for the newborn who is jittery and twitching and has a high-pitched cry?

A) Monitor blood pressure closely.
B) Obtain urine sample to detect glycosuria.
C) Obtain serum glucose and serum calcium levels.
D) Administer oral glucose or, if newborn refuses to suck, IV dextrose.

These are signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia and hypoglycemia. A blood test is useful to determine the treatment. Laboratory analysis for calcium and blood glucose should be the priority intervention. Monitoring vital signs is important, but recognition of the possible hypocalcemia and hypoglycemia is imperative. A finding of glycosuria would not facilitate the diagnosis of hypoglycemia. A determination must be made between the hypocalcemia and hypoglycemia before treatment can be initiated.