Which neonatal reflex involves the infant opening the arms wide and spreading the fingers in response to a startling stimulus?

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Multiple Choice

Which neonatal reflex involves the infant opening the arms wide and spreading the fingers in response to a startling stimulus?

Explanation:
The Neonatal startle response, known as the Moro reflex, is being tested here. When a sudden or startling stimulus occurs, the infant rapidly extends the arms outward (abduction) and spreads the fingers. This is followed by a quick inward movement of the arms toward the body. This reflex is present at birth and typically fades by about 4 to 6 months. Other common neonatal reflexes don’t match this pattern: the Babinski reflex involves the toes fanning and dorsiflexion when the sole is stimulated; the rooting reflex is turning the head toward a touch on the cheek and seeking the nipple; and the palmar grasp reflex is the infant grasping an object placed in the palm.

The Neonatal startle response, known as the Moro reflex, is being tested here. When a sudden or startling stimulus occurs, the infant rapidly extends the arms outward (abduction) and spreads the fingers. This is followed by a quick inward movement of the arms toward the body. This reflex is present at birth and typically fades by about 4 to 6 months.

Other common neonatal reflexes don’t match this pattern: the Babinski reflex involves the toes fanning and dorsiflexion when the sole is stimulated; the rooting reflex is turning the head toward a touch on the cheek and seeking the nipple; and the palmar grasp reflex is the infant grasping an object placed in the palm.

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