Question

The mature, healthy newborn holds his arms and legs in a _________ position, and shows __________ movement when crying or exercising.

1) Flaccid; passive
2) Flexed; active
3) Straight; little
4) None of the above

Answer 1

The mature, healthy newborn holds arms and legs in a flexed position and has active movement when crying or exercising, making option 2 the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mature, healthy newborn typically holds his arms and legs in a flexed position, and shows active movement when crying or exercising. Therefore, the correct answer is 2) Flexed; active. Newborns are known for their reflex actions such as the Moro reflex and the grasping reflex, which contribute to their active movements. Their body proportions are also active, with their limbs relatively long compared to the rest of the body, facilitating movement. Moreover, infants express their needs and discomforts through crying, which involves active movement of limbs.