A nurse is performing a head assessment on a newborn. Which finding should the nurse report to the provider immediately?

Hydrocephalus involves excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulation causing ventricular dilation and increased intracranial pressure. This leads to macrocephaly, bulging fontanels, and disproportionate craniofacial features. Untreated progression results in neurologic compromise and requires urgent evaluation and intervention. Rationale: A. Caput succedaneum is benign scalp edema from birth pressure that crosses suture lines and resolves spontaneously within days. It does not indicate intracranial pathology. Presence of soft tissue swelling without neurologic signs reflects a normal transient finding. B. Overriding cranial sutures occur due to molding during vaginal delivery and typically resolve within a few days postpartum. This finding is expected in newborns. Temporary bone overlap without signs of increased pressure indicates normal birth adaptation. C. Enlarged cranial vault with a disproportionately small face suggests hydrocephalus due to increased intracranial fluid volume. This abnormal growth pattern indicates possible elevated intracranial pressure. Presence of macrocephaly and altered craniofacial ratio requires immediate medical evaluation. D. A flat and soft anterior fontanel is a normal finding indicating appropriate hydration and intracranial pressure. It reflects normal neonatal physiology. Absence of bulging fontanel and presence of soft consistency confirm a stable condition.