Question

A nurse suspects that a newly delivered baby has Down syndrome. The nurse noted that the baby exhibited which of the following physiological characteristics? Select all that apply.

1) Elongated face
2) Protruding tongue
3) Large, high-set ears
4) Wide, flat nasal bridge
5) Asymmetric Moro reflex

Answer 1

Physical characteristics suggesting Down syndrome in a newborn include a protruding tongue and a wide, flat nasal bridge. An elongated face and large, high-set ears are not typical of Down syndrome; the Asymmetric Moro reflex is not distinct to it.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse suspects that a newly delivered baby has Down syndrome. The baby exhibited specific physiological characteristics which are typically associated with this genetic disorder. The physiological characteristics that are suggestive of Down syndrome among the options provided are:

• Protruding tongue
• Wide, flat nasal bridge

Characteristics such as elongated face and large, high-set ears are not typical of Down syndrome. The Asymmetric Moro reflex could be indicative of a number of conditions or normal variation and is not distinctly characteristic of Down syndrome.

Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. Individuals with Down syndrome may exhibit developmental delays, a distinctive facial appearance, and various physical and intellectual impairments. Observing phenotypical characteristics is one method by which healthcare providers may suspect the presence of this genetic disorder in a newborn.