Neonatal hypoglycemia (NH) is broadly defined as a low plasma glucose concentration that elicits hypoglycemia-induced impaired brain function. To date, no universally accepted threshold (reference range) for plasma glucose levels in newborns has been published, as data consistently indicate that neurologic responses to hypoglycemia differ at various plasma glucose concentrations. Infants at risk for NH include infants of diabetic mothers, small or large for gestational age, and premature infants. Common manifestations include jitteriness, poor feeding, irritability, and encephalopathy. Neurodevelopmental morbidities associated with NH include cognitive and motor delays, cerebral palsy, vision and hearing impairment, and poor school performance. This article offers a timely discussion of the state of the science of NH and recommendations for neonatal providers focused on early identification and disease prevention.

Quality improvement is paramount in the nursing profession today, and there is increased awareness and focus on implementing evidence-based practices into nursing care. The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is an evidence-based program that promotes and protects exclusive breastfeeding by encouraging breast milk feeds to infants from the time of birth. This article will discuss the history and current state of breastfeeding in the United States as well as an evidence-based change model that can be used to implement the BFHI to change the status quo and future of breastfeeding in the United States. Physical benefits to the infant and mother as well as financial benefits to the mother, hospital, and global economy will also be addressed.

Neonatal therapists are a key team member, especially, when in concert with the medical teams, especially nurses. This column speaks of the challenges the author faced as a parent in the NICU then delves into an interview with Heather Batman, a feeding occupational and neonatal therapist who provides personal and professional insight into how those NICU days and the team members ultimately benefit that infant\'s long-term outcome.