Final answer:
The reported respiratory rate, heart rate, temperature, and blood glucose level of the newborn are within normal ranges and do not immediately indicate the need for medical intervention. However, continued monitoring is important to ensure the newborn remains stable.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Apgar score is a rapid method for assessing a newborn's health, considering five criteria: skin color, heart rate, reflex, muscle tone, and respiration. Each criterion is assigned a score of 0, 1, or 2, with a total score out of 10 indicating the baby's condition. When a student asks whether to report to an MD regarding a newborn's vital signs, it is important to compare the values to the typical ranges expected in a newborn to determine if there is any indication of distress or medical emergency.
A respiratory rate of 40 breaths/min is within the normal range for a newborn, which typically ranges from 40 to 60 breaths per minute. A heart rate of 120 beats/min is also normal, as the typical range is 120 to 160 beats per minute. A temperature of 99.8°F could be a slight concern as it is on the higher end of normal, but not necessarily indicative of an emergency. The blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL is acceptable for a 2-hour-old newborn, as normal levels can range between 40 to 60 mg/dL. None of these values indicate the need for immediate concern or emergency intervention based on Apgar score standards; however, close monitoring and further assessment is always prudent in newborn care.