The nurse notices while holding him upright that a 1-day-old newborn has a significantly indented anterior fontanelle. She immediately brings it to the attention of the physician. What does this finding most likely indicate?

Choice A reason:

The cord is still pulsating. This is not the first thing a nurse must ensure when the head comes out because the cord normally pulsates until the placenta is delivered. The pulsation indicates that the cord is still functioning and transferring blood and oxygen between the baby and the placenta. However, this does not mean that the cord is free from any complications that could endanger the baby's life, such as a nuchal cord (a cord wrapped around the neck) or a prolapsed cord (a cord that slips out before the baby). • Choice B reason:

The cord is intact. This is not the first thing a nurse must ensure when the head comes out because the cord is usually intact until it is clamped and cut after the delivery of the baby. The cord can be ruptured by excessive traction or twisting, which can cause bleeding and shock in the baby. However, this is a rare occurrence and does not pose an immediate threat to the baby's life as long as the cord is still attached to the placenta. • Choice C reason:

No part of the cord is encircling the baby's neck. This is the correct answer because a nuchal cord can cause compression of the cord and reduce blood flow and oxygen to the baby, leading to fetal distress, hypoxia, and brain damage. A nuchal cord occurs in about 10 to 30 percent of deliveries and can be detected by feeling for a loop of cord around the neck as the head emerges. If a nuchal cord is present, it should be gently slipped over the head or clamped and cut before delivery of the shoulders. • Choice D reason:

The cord is still attached to the placenta. This is not the first thing a nurse must ensure when the head comes out because the cord is always attached to the placenta until it separates from the uterine wall and is expelled after the delivery of the baby. The placenta provides nourishment and oxygen to the baby through the cord. However, this does not mean that the cord is free from any complications that could endanger the baby's life, such as a nuchal cord or a prolapsed cord.

Choice A reason:

Babinski's Reflex is the normal response in infants when the sole of the foot is stroked from the heel to the ball of the foot. The big toe moves upward or toward the top surface of the foot, and the other toes fan out. This reflex is normal in children up to 2 years old, and it disappears as the nervous system matures. It may indicate damage to the central nervous system in older children and adults.

Choice B reason:

Stepping Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are held upright with their feet touching a flat surface. They will lift one foot and then the other, as if they are walking. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 2 months. It helps prepare the infant for voluntary walking.

Choice C reason:

Moro Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are startled by a loud noise or a sudden movement. They will extend their arms and legs, open their hands, and then curl up and bring their arms together as if they are hugging themselves. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 4 to 6 months. It is thought to be a protective response that helps the infant cling to their caregiver.

Choice D reason:

Plantar Grasp Reflex is the normal response in infants when pressure is applied to the sole of the foot near the toes. The toes will curl down and grasp the stimulus. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 9 to 12 months. It is similar to the palmar grasp reflex in the hands, and it helps develop the muscles and nerves in the feet. Some additional sentences are:. If you are interested in learning more about infant development, you can check out some of these links:. • [A guide to newborn reflexes]. • [A video demonstration of newborn reflexes].