Final answer:
A postterm newborn often exhibits a thin umbilical cord, dry, wrinkled, and cracked skin, limited vernix caseosa, and creases covering the soles of the feet. These attributes are generally noticed due to the fetus growing beyond the usual term, resulting in changes in skin appearance and umbilical cord thinness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, a postterm newborn typically demonstrates certain characteristics including a thin umbilical cord, dry, cracked, and wrinkled skin, limited vernix, and lanugo, as well as creases covering the entire soles of the feet. After week 31 until birth, a fetus continues to lay down subcutaneous fat filling out the skin and making it transition from red and wrinkled to soft and pink. This contributes to the thin, dry, and cracked appearance of the newborn's skin. The umbilical cord is the connection between the developing fetus and the placenta, carrying deoxygenated blood and wastes from the fetus, and returning nutrients and oxygen from the mother. Vernix caseosa is a waxy substance that protects fetal skin before birth. These attributes together with the presence of long creases across the entire soles of the feet are significant clues indicating a postterm baby.
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