Newborn Assessment Flashcards

Jaundice that appears within the first 24 hours of life should be treated as what?

Answer: Pathologic until proven otherwise

Jaundice before 24 hours is pathologic until proven otherwise, often from hemolysis, and needs a bilirubin level right away.

A newborn has not passed meconium by 48 hours. Which condition is most important to consider?

Answer: Hirschsprung disease

Delayed passage of meconium beyond 48 hours in a term baby is a classic sign of Hirschsprung disease.

Which reflex is tested by stroking the lateral sole from heel to toes, producing toe fanning and dorsiflexion of the big toe in a newborn?

Answer: Babinski

A positive Babinski response is normal in newborns and usually goes away in the first 1-2 years.

Asymmetric Moro reflex with decreased movement of one arm after a shoulder dystocia most likely indicates what?

Answer: Brachial plexus injury or clavicle fracture

Shoulder dystocia can fracture the clavicle or injure the brachial plexus (Erb palsy), which reduces arm movement on that side.

What is the normal resting heart rate range for a term newborn?

Answer: 110-160 bpm

A term newborn's heart rate is normally about 110-160 bpm, and it may dip slightly during deep sleep.

Persistent, bilious (green) vomiting in a newborn requires urgent evaluation for which condition?

Answer: Intestinal malrotation with volvulus

Bilious vomiting suggests a blockage below the ampulla of Vater, and malrotation with volvulus is a surgical emergency.

A newborn's umbilical cord has only two vessels. What is the most appropriate response?

Answer: Examine closely for other anomalies, especially renal and cardiac

A single umbilical artery is linked to renal, cardiac, and chromosomal anomalies, so the baby needs a careful exam and follow-up.