Which description best characterizes the Moro reflex in newborns?

Which description best characterizes the Moro reflex in newborns?

• A. The startle reflex when the infant is suddenly dropped or startled, causing arms/legs to extend.
• B. Sucking reflex.
• C. Palmar grasp.
• D. Babinski sign.

Answer: (A)

The Moro reflex is the newborn startle response to sudden stimulation, such as a sudden drop or loud noise. It manifests as the infant first extending the arms outward and then bringing them back toward the body, often with crying. This description fits the described scenario of being startled and have the arms/legs extend. The reflex is a primitive protective mechanism that typically disappears by about 4 to 6 months of age. Sucking, the palmar grasp, and the Babinski sign are different reflexes with distinct triggers and patterns: sucking is the feeding reflex, palmar grasp is fingers closing around a placed object, and Babinski is upward movement of the big toe with fanning of the other toes when the sole is stroked.

The Moro reflex is the newborn startle response to sudden stimulation, such as a sudden drop or loud noise. It manifests as the infant first extending the arms outward and then bringing them back toward the body, often with crying. This description fits the described scenario of being startled and have the arms/legs extend. The reflex is a primitive protective mechanism that typically disappears by about 4 to 6 months of age.

Sucking, the palmar grasp, and the Babinski sign are different reflexes with distinct triggers and patterns: sucking is the feeding reflex, palmar grasp is fingers closing around a placed object, and Babinski is upward movement of the big toe with fanning of the other toes when the sole is stroked.