A Comparison of Newborns' NBAS Reflex Responses Using Total and Individual Scores

Jana L. Pressler, Joseph T. Hepworth, Mark I. Appelbaum, Rose Harcar Sevcik, Edward L. Hoffman

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare results found using a total summative score of abnormal reflex responses with the results found using individual reflex scores. The 20 reflexes included as part of the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS) were assessed on 196 neonates on the 1st and 2nd days postnatally. Differences due to of type of delivery, birth weight, whether their mothers were insulin-dependent diabetics or nondiabetics, and day of testing were assessed by using analysis of variance. The key results were that all effects found using the total reflex score were replicated with individual reflex scores and that individual reflex scores also revealed effects not shown using the total score. It was concluded that the individual reflex scores, rather than the total score, should be used when evaluating newborn reflex performance.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)123-136
Number of pages14
JournalJournal of nursing measurement
Volume6
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1998
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Nursing

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