After a vaginal delivery, what is a common sign of birth trauma that the nurse should assess for in a newborn?

Asymmetrical Moro reflex is an important sign of potential birth trauma that the nurse should assess for in a newborn following a vaginal delivery. The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, is a response in which a baby extends their arms and legs and then quickly retracts them in response to a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise or the sensation of falling.

In a healthy, neurologically intact newborn, this reflex should be symmetrical, meaning that both sides of the body should respond equally. If the Moro reflex is asymmetrical, it may indicate possible nerve injury, particularly to the brachial plexus, which can occur during delivery, especially in cases of shoulder dystocia or excessive manipulation during the birth process. Assessing the Moro reflex helps the nurse to identify any underlying issues that may need further evaluation and management.

The Babinski reflex, present in newborns, is a normal finding and would not indicate trauma. Excessive crying during feeding can arise from many factors such as hunger, discomfort, or other normal neonatal behaviors and does not specifically denote birth trauma. Swelling of the head, such as caput succedaneum, is a common occurrence post-delivery and is typically a result of the pressure exerted during