Newborn Traits
What is the average weight of a newborn baby?
(6-8 lbs)
This reflex occurs when a newborn turns their head toward a touch on the cheek.
Rooting reflex
When is the APGAR test performed?
1,5 Minute
This injection prevents bleeding problems in newborns.
Vitamin K injection
What is Lanugo?
Soft, fine baby hair
What is Vernix Caseosa
A white, waxy coating that protects the baby’s skin
This reflex causes the newborn to grasp a finger placed in the palm.
Palmar grasp reflex
The five components measured in the Apgar score.
Heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, color
This eye ointment prevents gonorrheal infection in newborns.
Erythromycin ointment
The first milk produced by the mother that is rich in antibodies.
Colostrum
Why do newborns have soft spots (fontanelles)?
To allow brain growth and easier passage through the birth canal
This reflex occurs when the infant suddenly extends arms and legs when startled.
Moro reflex
This head swelling crosses suture lines and is caused by pressure during birth.
Caput succedaneum
The safest sleep position for newborns.
Back (supine) sleeping
Explain how demand-and-supply works in breastfeeding.
The more the baby feeds, the more milk the body produces (feedback loop)
Why might newborns have bluish hands and feet?
Poor circulation (acrocyanosis), which is normal
This reflex helps the newborn begin feeding.
Sucking reflex
This type of head swelling does NOT cross suture lines.
Cephalohematoma
Newborns who breastfeed should feed approximately every ___ to ___ hours.
2–3 hours
How many times should a newborn feed each day?
8-10 times in 24 hours
Explain why newborns lose weight after birth and how much they typically lose
Loss of fluids + adjusting to feeding (approx 10%)
Why are reflexes important for newborn survival?
They help with feeding, protection, and development
A newborn has a weak cry, low muscle tone, and slow breathing. Which APGAR categories are affected and why?
Respiration, Activity, Grimace → signs of distress
A doctor notices a buildup of bilirubin due to immature liver → causes yellowing of skin/eyes. What is wrong?
Jaundice
Why is skin-to-skin contact especially important immediately after birth from a biological perspective? 3 examples
Regulates temperature, heart rate, breathing, promotes bonding + breastfeeding