Retrospective Evaluation of a New Danish National Guideline: Impact on Neonatal Hypoglycemia and Breastfeeding
Mariuma Samim, Najma Abdihakim Mohamud, Huda Al‐Hage, Lars Bender, Rasa CiplieneABSTRACT
Aim
This study evaluates the impact of the most recent Danish national guideline for the management of neonatal hypoglycemia on neonate nutrition at discharge and the incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia within the first 24 h postpartum. The updated guideline introduced a 50% reduction in early feeding volume to support exclusive breastfeeding and implemented Dextrogel as first‐line treatment for neonatal hypoglycaemia.
Method
This retrospective cohort study compared two groups of neonates with increased risk of hypoglycemia: Group 2020 ( n = 254), managed according to the 2019 guideline, and Group 2024 ( n = 217), managed under the 2023 guideline. The primary outcome was nutrition at discharge; the secondary outcome was the incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia within 24 h postpartum.
Results
A significant difference was observed in nutrition at discharge, with 59% (151/254) of neonates in 2020 being breastfed compared to 68% (148/217) in 2024 ( p = 0.05). The overall incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia was also significantly different: 23% (58/254) in 2020 versus 31% (67/217) in 2024 ( p = 0.05). Significant differences were similarly observed at 1, 2 and 12 h postpartum.
Conclusion
The revised guideline appears to support breastfeeding, with a higher proportion of neonates breastfed at discharge. Despite an increased incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia, cases were transient and effectively managed with Dextrogel.