Rooting Reflex

Question 1

Stimulus

Answer 1

Stroking next to the mouth/on the cheek

Question 2

Response

Answer 2

Head turns towards the stimulus (cheek stim)

Mouth opens/attempts to suck (stim on lips)

Question 3

Onset

Answer 3

28 weeks gestation

Question 4

Integration

Answer 4

3 mos

Question 5

Significance

Answer 5

• Persistence can interfere w/sucking
• Asymmetry may indicate brain/facial injury
• Absent in babies depressed by barbiturates

Question 6

Activities

Answer 6

• Increased skin to skin contact

- Stroking on face w/soft-bristled paintbrush (5-6 times in a row, twice a day until reflex integrates)