The nurse is doing a neurologic assessment on a 2-month-old infant after a car accident. Moro, tonic neck, and withdrawal reflexes are present. The nurse should recognize that these reflexes are:
Symptomatic of decorticate posturing
Symptomatic of decerebrate posturing
Indicators of severe brain damage
Normal Findings
The Correct Answer is D
Reflexes play a crucial role in evaluating the neurological status of infants.
Moro reflex: Also known as the startle reflex, the Moro reflex is a normal response in infants. It occurs when an infant is startled by a sudden noise or movement. The baby responds by extending their arms and legs, followed by a quick contraction. This reflex usually disappears around 4-6 months of age.
Tonic neck reflex (fencer's reflex): This reflex involves turning an infant's head to one side, causing the arm on that side to extend and the opposite arm to flex. It's a normal reflex that typically disappears around 4-6 months of age.
Withdrawal reflex: The withdrawal reflex is a normal response to a stimulus, such as touching a baby's foot with a cold object. The baby will pull their leg away in response to the stimulus.
Symptomatic of decorticate or decerebrate posturing (options A and B):
Decorticate and decerebrate posturing are abnormal postures seen in individuals with severe brain damage or injury. Decorticate posturing involves the arms being flexed and held close to the body, while decerebrate posturing involves the arms being extended and the wrists being pronated. These reflexes are typically indicative of significant neurological dysfunction and are not expected in a 2-month-old infant after a car accident.
Indicators of severe brain damage (option C):
The reflexes described (Moro, tonic neck, and withdrawal reflexes) are not indicative of severe brain damage in a 2-month-old infant. These reflexes are normal for an infant of this age and are part of their typical neurological development.
Normal findings (option D):
The reflexes described are normal findings in a 2-month-old infant and are expected as part of their developmental milestones.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["2"]
Explanation
The nurse should administer 2 tablets.
Here's the calculation:
650 mg / 325 mg per tablet = 2 tablets
Since the nurse should administer a whole number of tablets, the answer is 2 tablets.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Using a suppository for bowel movement is a common approach for managing bowel function in people with paralysis and is appropriate.
B. Carrying a water bottle to stay hydrated is important, especially since individuals with paralysis may be at increased risk of urinary tract infections. Adequate hydration is beneficial.
C. Doing wheelchair exercises while watching TV is a proactive way to maintain muscle tone and overall health, which is crucial for individuals with paralysis.
D. "I only need to catheterize myself twice every day!"
Explanation: In the context of spina bifida and paralysis from the waist down, catheterization is often required for bladder management. Individuals with this condition often experience urinary retention and require intermittent catheterization to empty their bladder. However, "twice every day" is not usually sufficient for someone with paraplegia. Adequate catheterization frequency is crucial to prevent urinary retention, infections, and other complications.
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