Which characteristic is NOT considered normal in the physical assessment of a newborn's appearance?

A depressed chest in a newborn is not considered a normal finding during a physical assessment. In healthy newborns, the chest should appear rounded and symmetrical, reflecting typical thoracic development. A depressed chest can indicate potential underlying issues such as respiratory distress or congenital anomalies, which necessitate further assessment and possible intervention.

In contrast, a rounded chest is an expected and normal characteristic that represents the proper structure and development of the thoracic cavity. Short extremities can also be typical in many newborns, particularly in those who have just transitioned from the confined space of the uterus and may appear slightly disproportionate with shorter limbs relative to their trunk. Similarly, a longer body can be observed in some infants and, depending on the overall proportions, might be considered within the normal range. Thus, the presence of a depressed chest signifies a potential concern that would require closer observation and evaluation.