Infants of diabetic mothers: current perspectives

A thorough understanding of the metabolic alterations seen in pregnancies complicated by diabetes can help to provide the framework for comprehensive care of the mother and her infant. Nursing research may help to clarify the scope of problems encountered as well as delineating strategies to reduce mortality and morbidity. The problems encountered in infants of diabetic mothers can be better managed with a thorough understanding of the physiologic changes encountered. Assessment strategies can then be developed specific to the identified needs. Finally, interventions can be selected that promote healthy infant and family function and reduce long-term complications. Although perinatal outcomes have improved in diabetic pregnancies, there are still opportunities to reduce major complications and to improve quality of life.