Question

Which assessments are commonly used to evaluate a newborn's neuromuscular development?

A) Square window sign, heel-to-ear extension, and ankle dorsiflexion.

B) Recoil of the legs and arms, determination of the popliteal angle, and ventral suspension.

C) Square window sign, head lag, and reflexes (Moro, sucking, rooting, Babinski).

D) The scarf sign, ventral suspension, and determination of the popliteal angle

Answer 1

Common assessments to evaluate a newborn's neuromuscular development include the Babinski sign, positive in newborns and indicative of corticospinal tract integrity, as well as other reflexes and tests for limb recoil, muscle tone, and flexibility.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessments commonly used to evaluate a newborn's neuromuscular development include tests of primitive reflexes as well as observations of posture and movement. The Babinski sign, which is elicited by stroking the plantar surface of the infant's foot, is a key reflex in assessing the integrity of the corticospinal tract. The positive sign, normal in newborns, shows dorsiflexion of the foot and extension of the toes. In older children and adults, the presence of a positive Babinski sign can indicate issues related to neurological pathway myelination or corticospinal tract damage.

A newborn neurological exam also commonly tests for other reflexes, such as the Moro, suckling, and rooting reflexes, which are expected to be present in newborns and fade with age. Tests like the recoil of the limbs, the popliteal angle, square window sign, scarf sign, and ventral suspension can also be included to assess the baby's muscle tone and joint flexibility, which can provide insight into neuromuscular development.