Which action should be avoided in a prolapsed umbilical cord scenario?

Which action should be avoided in a prolapsed umbilical cord scenario?

• A. Carefully insert the cord back into the uterus.
• B. Place the mother in knee-chest position.
• C. Maintain the presenting part off the cord with gloved hand.
• D. Cover the exposed cord with sterile gauze.

Answer: (A)

In a prolapsed umbilical cord, the priority is to prevent compression of the cord to maintain fetal perfusion until delivery. Pushing the cord back into the uterus is avoided because it can worsen cord compression, interfere with delivery, and increase the risk to the fetus. Instead, immediately relieve pressure on the cord by keeping the presenting part off it with a gloved hand, ideally in a knee-chest or similar position to use gravity to reduce pressure. Cover the exposed cord with sterile, moist gauze to prevent drying and infection, and arrange rapid transport to a facility able to manage delivery.

In a prolapsed umbilical cord, the priority is to prevent compression of the cord to maintain fetal perfusion until delivery. Pushing the cord back into the uterus is avoided because it can worsen cord compression, interfere with delivery, and increase the risk to the fetus. Instead, immediately relieve pressure on the cord by keeping the presenting part off it with a gloved hand, ideally in a knee-chest or similar position to use gravity to reduce pressure. Cover the exposed cord with sterile, moist gauze to prevent drying and infection, and arrange rapid transport to a facility able to manage delivery.