Which finding is NOT normal when examining the ears of a newborn?

When examining the ears of a newborn, the presence of a bulging membrane is an abnormal finding. In healthy newborns, the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, should appear normal, which typically includes being pale or pearly gray in color and not bulging outwards. A bulging membrane suggests possible conditions such as otitis media (middle ear infection), which can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation behind the eardrum. This is a red flag that indicates the need for further assessment or intervention.

On the other hand, a movable membrane without bulging is a sign of a healthy eardrum that can respond appropriately to changes in pressure. A newborn's reaction to loud noises reflects normal auditory function and is an expected response that indicates the newborn's ability to hear. The absence of earwax in newborns is also typical, as they do not commonly present with earwax buildup at this stage.