RO18 LO3 Postnatal:Newborn Reflexes

Swimming reflex

Baby paddles and kicks in swimming motion. NB: Placing infant in water is dangerous

Palmar grasp reflex

Curling of the infant's fingers around an object that touches its palm.

Tonic neck

Infant lies in a fencing position with one arm is extended the other is flexed.

Stepping reflex

Infant lifts one foot after another is a stepping motion.

Eye blink

Infant quickly closes eye lid.

Sucking reflex

Infant sucks rhythmically if something is placed in their mouth.

Rooting reflex

Infants turn their heads toward anything that brushed their face

Moro reflex (startle reflex)

Occurs when the baby is startled by a noise or sudden movement

Babinski reflex

Stroke sole of foot from toe to heel to stimuate this reflex. Toes fan out and curl as foot twists.