A nurse is assessing a newborn's reflexes. The nurse strokes the lateral sole of the newborn's foot from the heel to the ball of the foot to elicit which reflex?
stepping
Babinski
tonic neck
plantar grasp
The Correct Answer is B
A. Stepping reflex is elicited by holding the newborn upright with feet touching a flat surface; the baby will make stepping movements.
B. Babinski reflex is correct. This reflex is elicited by stroking the lateral sole of the foot from the heel to the ball of the foot. A positive Babinski response in newborns is dorsiflexion of the big toe and fanning of the other toes — a normal finding up to about 12 months of age.
C. Tonic neck reflex (also called the “fencing” reflex) is seen when the newborn's head is turned to one side — the arm on that side extends while the opposite arm bends.
D. Plantar grasp is elicited by pressing a finger against the sole of the foot near the toes; the newborn will respond by curling the toes downward.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Evidence that the newborn is becoming chilled would typically include signs such as cool skin, mottling, or acrocyanosis ,not active behaviors like head movement and eye contact.
B. A good time to initiate breast-feeding is correct. The described behaviors ,eye contact, head movement, and tongue thrusting, are characteristic of the first period of reactivity, which occurs within the first 30 minutes after birth. During this time, the newborn is alert, responsive, and exhibits strong rooting and sucking reflexes, making it an ideal window to begin breastfeeding.
C. The period of decreased responsiveness preceding sleep typically occurs after the first period of reactivity and is marked by reduced activity and interest in feeding, not alert behaviors.
D. A sign that the infant is being overstimulated would usually involve signs like gaze aversion, hiccupping, or flailing ,not purposeful movements or eye contact.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Requests time to talk on the phone is more reflective of the "taking in" phase, where the mother is focused on herself and her own needs, such as resting and reflecting on the birth experience. This phase typically involves less engagement with the baby and more focus on recovery.
B. Hesitates to initiate contact with the newborn is characteristic of the "taking in" phase as well. During this phase, the mother may still be adjusting and may not yet feel confident in caring for her baby, often focusing more on her own recovery.
C. Allows staff to perform most of the infant's care is also more indicative of the "taking in" phase. During this phase, the mother is still learning and may feel less confident, often relying on others to care for the newborn.
D. Questions the nurse about frequency of feeding for the newborn is a behavior typically seen in the "taking hold" phase. During this phase, the mother becomes more active in caring for the baby, taking responsibility for its care, and showing interest in learning about the baby’s needs (such as feeding). This phase involves a shift toward becoming more independent and engaged in infant care.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.