Final answer:
A growth restricted newborn might exhibit low birth weight, difficulty feeding, limpness, and symptoms like apnea, bradycardia, and hypotension. They can also show physical traits like peeling skin and a leaner appearance. These neonates require close medical observation and care.
Step-by-step explanation:
Observations of a growth restricted newborn often relate to signs and symptoms associated with their condition. One might see characteristics like low birth weight (< 2.5 kg, or 5.5 lbs), small size for gestational age, and signs of nutritional deficiency. These neonates may also display symptoms reflective of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), such as difficulty feeding, low muscle tone (limpness), and underdeveloped body proportions compared to a typically grown newborn. A growth restricted baby may show symptoms such as temperature instability, apnea, bradycardia, hypotension, irritability, and reduced responsiveness, which can signify early-onset conditions. In cases of severe restriction, signs such as seizures and bulging fontanel may indicate late-onset issues. It is also not uncommon for such newborns to present with physical characteristics like peeling skin, and a lack of subcutaneous fat making them appear leaner. It is critical that these babies are monitored closely post-birth, as they are at an increased risk for complications and may require interventions such as surfactant replacement therapy if premature. These newborns are monitored for their capacity to gain weight and grow postnatally to ensure they do not develop further health complications or chronic conditions.