Which newborn reflex is elicited by stroking the lateral sole of the infant's foot from the heel to the ball of the foot?

Choice A rationale

Accumulation of flatulence can cause abdominal discomfort after a cesarean birth, but it does not directly stimulate uterine contractions leading to afterpains. Afterpains are specifically related to the involution of the uterus, not gastrointestinal motility.

Choice B rationale

Breastfeeding stimulates the release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary gland. Oxytocin is a powerful uterotonic hormone that causes the uterus to contract to its pre-pregnant size. These contractions are experienced as afterpains, especially in multiparous women whose uterine muscles may have less tone.

Choice C rationale

While some medications administered after birth can have side effects, severe cramps or afterpains are primarily a physiological response to uterine involution and the hormonal changes associated with breastfeeding, rather than a direct adverse effect of medication.

Choice D rationale

Healing of the abdominal incision after a C-section causes incisional pain, which is distinct from the cramping sensation of afterpains. Afterpains are specifically due to uterine contractions, not the healing process of the abdominal wall.

Choice A rationale

The stepping reflex, also known as the walking or dancing reflex, is elicited by holding the infant upright with their feet touching a flat surface. The infant will make stepping or dancing movements. This is not elicited by stroking the lateral sole of the foot.

Choice B rationale

The Babinski reflex is elicited by stroking the lateral sole of the infant's foot from the heel upward and across the ball of the foot. A positive Babinski sign is characterized by dorsiflexion of the great toe and fanning out of the other toes. This reflex is normal in infants and typically disappears by 12 to 24 months of age.

Choice C rationale

The tonic neck reflex, also known as the fencing reflex, is elicited by turning the infant's head to one side. The arm and leg on the turned side extend, while the arm and leg on the opposite side flex. Stroking the sole of the foot does not elicit this reflex.

Choice D rationale

The plantar grasp reflex is elicited by placing a finger or object across the base of the infant's toes. The toes will curl downward and grasp the object. This reflex is different from the response elicited by stroking the lateral sole of the foot. .