A newborn with hypothermia should be observed for which of the following?

A newborn with hypothermia should be observed for metabolic acidosis due to the physiological responses that occur in the body when it is exposed to low temperatures. When a newborn experiences hypothermia, the body metabolizes energy stores at an accelerated rate to generate heat. This process, especially if prolonged, can lead to increased production of acids as byproducts of metabolism. In addition, the body may not be able to clear these acids efficiently, especially if there is a compromised respiratory function or decreased perfusion, both of which can occur in hypothermic newborns.

This increased acid production can result in a drop in blood pH, leading to metabolic acidosis, which can have serious implications if not addressed promptly. Monitoring for signs of metabolic acidosis is crucial as it can affect the newborn's overall stability and require immediate intervention to restore normal biochemistry and prevent further complications.

In contrast, while dehydration, tachypnea, and hyperglycemia can be concerns in a wider context of neonatal care, they are not direct consequences of hypothermia in the same way that metabolic acidosis is. Dehydration can occur due to other factors, but it isn't an immediate consequence of hypothermia. Similarly, tachypnea may be seen if