Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 70%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a newborn who has neonatal abstinence syndrome. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Excessive crying. Neonatal abstinence syndrome is characterized by withdrawal symptoms in newborns exposed to addictive substances in utero. Excessive crying is a common manifestation due to neurological irritability. Diminished deep tendon reflexes (A) would not be expected as the central nervous system is hyperactive. Decreased muscle tone (C) is unlikely as muscle rigidity or tremors are more common. Absent Moro reflex (D) is not typically seen as it is a primitive reflex present in newborns.