The expected findings for the trigeminal nerve in infants focus primarily on their basic reflexes involving facial sensations and feeding. The trigeminal nerve has several functions, including the sensation of the face and motor functions such as chewing. In infants, the rooting and sucking reflex is a critical skill that is primarily mediated by the trigeminal nerve, as it involves the activation of the nerve’s sensory fibers in response to stimulation around the mouth and face.
When an infant's cheek or mouth is stroked, the rooting reflex is triggered, prompting the infant to turn their head and search for a nipple or bottle. This reflex is essential for feeding, making it a vital expected finding in assessing the trigeminal nerve's functioning in newborns.
The other options do not pertain to the primary functions of the trigeminal nerve. Recognition of facial features and speech recognition involve higher cognitive functions and are not exclusively linked to the trigeminal nerve's responsibilities. Similarly, the ability to see with both eyes involves the optic nerve, rather than the trigeminal nerve. Thus, the rooting and sucking reflex is the most appropriate finding when evaluating the function of the trigeminal nerve in infants.