In: Nursing
in a child.
PRIMITIVE REFLEXES |
||||
REFLEX NAME |
AGE OF INCORPORATION |
STARTING POSITION TO ILLICIT |
STIMULUS FOR ILLICITING |
REFLEXIVE RESPONSE |
Rooting |
||||
Asymmetrical tonic neck reflex |
||||
Symmetrical tonic neck reflex |
||||
Doll-eye |
||||
Palmar grasping |
||||
Plantar grasping |
||||
Moro/startle |
#. Neonatal reflexes :-
- Moro reflex
A reflex elicited by moving the neonate's head downward suddenly and then releasing it. This causes symmetric extension and abduction of the arms, fanning of the fingers, followed by the flexion of the upper extremities in an embracing movement. Legs may flex weakly.
this reflex is present at birth and disappears by 3-4 months.
It originates from the vestibular nuclei in the brainstem.
- Startle reflex
When a newborn lying supine is exposed to sudden loud noise, it causes the newborn to suddenly turn his/her head, with symmetrical extension of the extremities, formation of a C shape by the thumb and forefinger followed by a return to a flexed position.
Present at birth and disappears by age 3-6 months.
Asymmetrical movement indicates fractured clavicle, or birth injury to the nerves of the arms.
Absence of the reflex means there is an underlying neurological damage.
- Rooting reflex
A reflex elicited by applying a light tactile stimulus in the perioral area where by the newborn turns the head, opens the mouth and searches for the stimulus.
Present at birth and disappears by 3-4 months.
Originates from the brainstem Trigeminal system.
- Palmer grasp
stroking or applying pressure on the palm of the neonate causes flexion of the hand where the grasp tightens with attempts to remove the examiner's finger.
Lessens after 3 months and disappears by 6 months.
originates from the brainstem vestibular nuclei.
- Plantar grasp
Placing a finger below the neonate's toes causes the toes to curl downward in an attempt to the finger.
Disappears by 9-12 months.
- Asymmetrical tonic neck reflex/ tonic labyrinthine reflex/ Fencer response
When the head of the neonate is turned to one side, the arm and leg on that side extend and the arm and leg on the opposite side flex.
Disappears by 6 months.
Originates from the brainstem vestibular nuclei.
-