North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Signs of subtle seizures in a newborn may include?

1. Persistent crying

2. Screaming and gasping

3. Apnea and eyelid fluttering

4. Jerking of the body

The correct answer is: Apnea and eyelid fluttering

Subtle seizures in a newborn can often present with less obvious signs, making it crucial for caregivers and healthcare providers to recognize these indicators early on. The signs of apnea and eyelid fluttering are particularly significant because they can indicate a disruption in neurological function. Apnea refers to periods where the newborn stops breathing, which can occur during seizures as the brain temporarily misfires nerve signals. Eyelid fluttering is another subtle symptom that may be overlooked but is recognized as a potential indicator of seizure activity. This fluttering motion suggests that there may be abnormal electrical activity occurring in the brain, which is consistent with seizure episodes. Other options do indeed reflect symptoms that could occur in various situations, but they may not be as specific or reliable in signaling subtle seizures. Persistent crying and jerking of the body, for example, might be attributed to a variety of stimuli or conditions unrelated to seizure activity. Screaming and gasping, while concerning, can also arise from non-seizure-related distress and do not specifically indicate seizure occurrence. Thus, recognizing apnea and eyelid fluttering as signs of subtle seizures in a newborn is essential for prompt identification and intervention, which can significantly impact the outcomes for these vulnerable patients.