The nurse is preparing to teach the postpartum mom about newborn feeding cues.
Which of the following behaviors of the infant would be considered early hunger cues? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale

The Babinski reflex is elicited by stroking the outer edge of the sole of the newborn’s foot, moving up toward the toes. This causes the big toe to move upward and the other toes to fan out.

Choice B rationale

Turning the newborn’s head quickly to one side is used to elicit the tonic neck reflex, not the Babinski reflex.

Choice C rationale

Holding the newborn vertically and allowing one foot to touch the table surface is used to elicit the stepping reflex, not the Babinski reflex.

Choice D rationale

Clapping near the crib and making a loud noise is used to elicit the startle (Moro) reflex, not the Babinski reflex.

Choice A rationale

Monitoring blood glucose levels frequently is important for newborns, especially those at risk for hypoglycemia. However, it does not directly prevent jaundice. Jaundice is caused by elevated bilirubin levels, which are not directly related to blood glucose levels.

Choice B rationale

Beginning phototherapy immediately is a treatment for jaundice, not a preventive measure. Phototherapy is used to reduce high bilirubin levels in newborns who already have jaundice.

Choice C rationale

Initiating early feeding is an effective way to prevent jaundice in newborns. Early feeding helps promote regular bowel movements, which aids in the excretion of bilirubin from the body, thereby reducing the risk of jaundice.

Choice D rationale

Preparing for a blood transfusion is a treatment for severe jaundice, not a preventive measure. Blood transfusions are used in cases of extreme hyperbilirubinemia that do not respond to other treatments.