Physiological AdaptationQuestion 1638 of 2368
Which finding should the nurse recognize as abnormal?
- A newborn whose fingers close when the palm is stroked
- A newborn who turns the head toward a stroked cheek
- An adult whose fingers close reflexively when the palm is stroked
- A newborn whose arms jerk up and out after a loud noise
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Correct answer: An adult whose fingers close reflexively when the palm is stroked
Newborn reflexes should fade during development. One that reappears in adulthood suggests neurological disease.
Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Neurological Assessment: Newborn Reflexes. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Physiological Adaptation"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026