Newborn Reflex Assessment Flashcards
It is the rapid eyelid closure when strong light is shone. Tap gently over the forehead and the eyes will blink.
Blink reflex
When the cheek is brushed or stroked near the corner of the mouth. a newborn turns the head on that direction.
Rooting reflex (6 weeks)
When newborn lips are touched, the baby makes a sucking motion.
Sucking reflex (6 months)
A substance that is placed on the anterior portion of the tongue is extruded.
Extrusion reflexes (4 months)
A food that reaches the posterior portion of the tongue is automatically swallowed.
Swallowing reflexes
When the newborn lies on his back, the head usually turns to one side, the arm and leg on that side extend and the opposite arm and leg contract.
Tonic-neck reflex (2-3 months)
When the side of the sole of the foot is stroked in an inverted J, fanning of toes will result.
Babinski reflex (3 months)
Place an object in the palm of infant’s hand and the infant will grasp the object.
Palmar grasp reflex (6 weeks to 3 months)
Making an abrupt loud noise or by jarring the bassinet causes abduction of both arms and curling of the fingers.
Moro reflex (4-5 months)
When an object touches the sole of a newborn’s foot at the base of the toes, the toes grasp in the same manner as the finger do.
Plantar reflex (8-9 months)
When a newborn lies on prone position and is touched along the paravertebral area by probing finger, the newborn flexes his trunk and swings the pelvis toward the touch.
Trunk Incurvation reflex (5-6 days)
If one leg of the newborn lying supine is extended and the sole of that foot is being rubbed, the infant raises the other leg and extends it as if pushing away the hand irritating the first leg.
Crossed extension reflex
A newborn who is held in a vertical position with their feet touching a hard surface will take few alternating step or simulate walking.
Stepping/Walking reflex (3-4 weeks)
Steps up when dorsum of foot is stimulated.
Placing reflex (4-6 months)
When prone, the newborn should demonstrate some muscle tone. A test of spinal cord integrity.
Landau reflex
