What is a common characteristic of caput succedaneum in newborns?

Prepare for the Evolve Maternity Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for success!

Caput succedaneum is characterized by a soft swelling of the skull in newborns, typically occurring as a result of prolonged labor, especially during a vaginal delivery. One of the key features of caput succedaneum is that it resolves relatively quickly, often within hours to a few days after birth. This rapid resolution is due to the fact that the swelling is mainly composed of fluid and does not involve damage to the underlying bone or tissue.

In contrast, the other options refer to conditions or features that do not typically apply to caput succedaneum. For example, it does not require surgical intervention; rather, it is a benign and self-limiting condition. Additionally, it is not associated with bone fractures, and unlike some other conditions involving the skull, caput succedaneum is not permanent. The transient nature of the swelling, combined with its non-invasive management, makes quick resolution a defining characteristic of caput succedaneum in newborns.

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