Failure to adequately warm a newborn can result in which of the following conditions?

The correct answer highlights the critical issue of thermoregulation in newborns. Newborns have limited physiological responses to cold and can lose body heat rapidly through processes such as conduction, convection, and radiation.

When a newborn is not adequately warmed, their body temperature drops, which can lead to hypothermia. This low body temperature can affect the metabolic rate and impair the body's ability to maintain adequate glucose levels, leading to hypoglycemia. Additionally, the stress of cold exposure can increase oxygen consumption and result in respiratory issues, potentially leading to asphyxia.

It’s important to note that while hypovolemia, hyperthermia, and asphyxia can have serious implications for a newborn, the immediate consequence of inadequate warming directly relates to hypoglycemia, as the infant's energy reserves are depleted in an attempt to maintain normal body temperature. Maintaining normothermia through proper warming techniques is essential to avoid these complications and ensure the newborn's health and well-being.