Which physiological responses indicate acute pain in a neonate?

• A. Increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, diaphoresis
• B. Decreased heart rate and blood pressure
• C. Increased oxygen saturation only
• D. Decreased respirations only

Answer: (A)

Acute pain in a neonate triggers the body's autonomic response, so you’ll see signs like an increased heart rate, higher blood pressure, and diaphoresis. These reflect sympathetic nervous system activation as the infant experiences pain. While other signs might occur, such as changes in respiratory patterns, the combination of tachycardia, hypertension, and sweating is the most consistent and direct set of indicators of acute pain in newborns. Decreased heart rate and blood pressure are not typical pain responses, increased oxygen saturation isn’t a reliable pain cue, and decreased respirations would not usually accompany acute pain in this age group.