A nurse is collecting data from a newborn.
The nurse should recognize that which of the following images demonstrates a positive Babinski reflex?
Image of a newborn with toes fanning out when the sole of the foot is stroked.
Image of a newborn with toes curling in when the sole of the foot is stroked.
Image of a newborn with no response when the sole of the foot is stroked.
Image of a newborn with the big toe bending down when the sole of the foot is stroked.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A positive Babinski reflex is characterized by the fanning out of the toes and the upward movement of the big toe when the sole of the foot is stroked. This reflex is normal in infants up to 2 years old and indicates an immature central nervous system. The presence of this reflex in older children or adults can indicate neurological issues.
Choice B rationale
Curling in of the toes when the sole of the foot is stroked is indicative of the plantar grasp reflex, not the Babinski reflex. The plantar grasp reflex is a different neurological response and does not indicate the same neurological development as the Babinski reflex.
Choice C rationale
No response when the sole of the foot is stroked could indicate a lack of neurological response or an issue with the sensory or motor pathways. This is not characteristic of a positive Babinski reflex and could be a sign of neurological impairment.
Choice D rationale
The big toe bending down when the sole of the foot is stroked is a normal response in older children and adults, known as the plantar reflex. This response indicates a mature central nervous system and is not characteristic of a positive Babinski reflex in infants.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying lotion to the newborn’s extremities every 8 hours is not recommended during phototherapy. Lotions and ointments can cause burns when exposed to phototherapy lights and may interfere with the treatment’s effectiveness.
Choice B rationale
Repositioning the newborn every 4 hours is not frequent enough. The newborn should be repositioned every 2 hours to ensure even exposure to the phototherapy light and to prevent pressure sores.
Choice C rationale
Removing the eye mask during feedings is correct. The eye mask should be removed during feedings to allow for bonding and to check for any signs of irritation or infection. This also ensures that the newborn’s eyes are protected from the phototherapy light when not under the lamp.
Choice D rationale
Supplementing feedings with glucose water is not recommended. Breast milk or formula should be used to ensure the newborn receives adequate nutrition and hydration. Glucose water does not provide the necessary nutrients and can interfere with breastfeeding.
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
Based on the provided information, here’s the completed diagram:
Potential Condition
- Neonatal abstinence syndrome
Actions to Take
- Reinforce with the parent to feed the newborn
- Anticipate a prescription to obtain a capillary blood sample
Parameters to Monitor
- Respiratory status
- Temperature
Congenital Syphilis
- Reasoning: The mother’s syphilis was treated successfully in the first trimester, and her subsequent tests (VDRL and RPR) were negative. This indicates that the infection was resolved, making congenital syphilis unlikely.
Hypoglycemia
- Reasoning: While some symptoms like jitteriness and weak cry could suggest hypoglycemia, the newborn’s weight (4,366 g) and the absence of other typical signs like lethargy or seizures make this less likely. Additionally, there is no mention of a blood glucose test result indicating hypoglycemia.
Kernicterus
- Reasoning: Kernicterus is a severe form of jaundice caused by high bilirubin levels. The newborn’s symptoms (jitteriness, weak cry, mottled extremities, acrocyanosis) do not align with the typical presentation of kernicterus, which includes severe jaundice, lethargy, and high-pitched crying. There is also no mention of elevated bilirubin levels.
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)
- Reasoning: The newborn’s symptoms (jitteriness, weak cry, rapid respirations, restlessness, difficulty feeding, and decreased muscle tone) are consistent with NAS, which can occur due to maternal substance use during pregnancy. The positive urine drug screen for marijuana supports this diagnosis
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