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Sarnat Staging — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateNeurology & DevelopmentSarnat StagingRACP Paediatrics

A term neonate has seizures at 18 hours of life after a difficult delivery. The Sarnat staging system is used to grade HIE. What does Sarnat stage 2 (moderate HIE) include?

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Correct answer: C — Lethargy, hypotonia, weak suck, seizures

Sarnat stage 2 (moderate HIE): lethargy, hypotonia, weak suck and Moro, seizures common, constricted pupils. Stage 1 (mild): hyperalert, jitteriness, normal tone. Stage 3 (severe): comatose, flaccid, absent reflexes. Therapeutic hypothermia is indicated for Sarnat stage 2-3 in term neonates within 6 hours of birth.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: HIE