Which assessment technique would the nurse use to best elicit the Moro reflex in a full-term newborn?

Choice A rationale Touching the infant's cheek with a finger is the technique used to elicit the rooting reflex, not the Moro reflex. The rooting reflex involves the infant turning the head toward the stimulus and opening the mouth to search for the nipple, which is a crucial reflex for feeding and typically diminishes around four months of age, demonstrating neurological health. Choice B rationale The Moro reflex, often called the startle reflex, is best elicited by a sudden, simulated loss of support or loud noise, such as suddenly striking the surface of the crib. The expected response is rapid abduction and extension of the arms and legs, followed by slower flexion and adduction, and usually disappears by three to six months of age. Choice C rationale Stroking the sole of the foot along the outer edge from the heel to the toe is the technique used to elicit the Babinski reflex. A positive response, which is normal in neonates, involves the fanning and hyperextension of the toes, and this reflex typically disappears by one year of age as myelination of the corticospinal tract occurs. Choice D rationale Allowing the infant's feet to touch the surface of the crib is a technique used to demonstrate the stepping or walking reflex. In response, the infant will make stepping movements when held upright with the soles of the feet touching a hard surface, which is a primitive motor pattern that fades by about four to six weeks.