2025 EMT Obstetrics and Neonatal Care Complete Practice Exam

A key sign that a newborn may be experiencing withdrawal symptoms is the presence of irritability and tremors. Newborns who have been exposed to certain substances during pregnancy, such as opioids or alcohol, can exhibit withdrawal symptoms after birth. These symptoms typically manifest as irritability—often characterized by excessive crying or difficulty being soothed—and physical symptoms such as tremors or shaking.

In the context of withdrawal, irritability indicates that the infant is distressed and struggling to adjust to the absence of the substances they were exposed to in utero. Tremors also suggest neurological involvement, as the nervous system is affected by withdrawal. This combination of signs serves as a critical indicator for healthcare providers to recognize and address potential withdrawal in newborns, ensuring they receive the appropriate care and support.

Other signs, such as excessive sleeping or decreased appetite, may be present but are not as definitive in indicating withdrawal as irritability and tremors are. Calm behavior, on the other hand, is typically a sign of a stable newborn and is not associated with withdrawal symptoms. Thus, irritability and tremors are the most distinctive indicators of withdrawal in newborns.