Which of the following is NOT a normal physical characteristic of a newborn?

The choice indicating a depressed chest is not a normal physical characteristic of a newborn, which is why it is the correct answer. In healthy neonates, the chest typically displays a rounded contour and is symmetrical, allowing for proper lung expansion and respiratory function. A depressed or sunken chest may indicate underlying issues, such as congenital defects or respiratory distress, warranting further investigation.

In contrast, a rounded chest is standard and indicates normal development. Short extremities are also common in newborns due to their proportionate body structure, and a relatively long body can be a normal variation within the range for neonates. Therefore, a depressed chest stands out as an abnormal characteristic among these options, highlighting the importance of recognizing normal versus concerning physical findings in the neonatal population.