Nursing Care of the Newborn Related

Review Nursing Care of the Newborn related questions and content

The nurse holds an infant upright and allows his feet to brush the surface of the examination table. Which of the following is the normal reflex response to this stimulation?

  • A. Draws legs up tight against the lower abdomen
  • B. Extends legs straight against the pressure
  • C. Makes stepping actions with both feet
  • D. Toes curl in then fan outward symmetrically
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The stepping reflex occurs when the infant is held upright and his or her feet brush a horizontal surface distal to the feet. Drawing the legs up tight against the lower abdomen would be an abnormal response. Extending the legs against pressure is a positive magnet reflex. Curling the toes in, then fanning them outward, is a positive Babinski reflex.