During an imminent delivery, which action should be avoided?

During an imminent delivery, which action should be avoided?

• A. Cutting the cord prematurely
• B. Supporting the perineum
• C. Preparing for newborn care
• D. Trying to deliver quickly

Answer: (A)

Delaying cord clamping is important during an imminent delivery because it allows continued placental transfusion to the newborn, increasing blood volume and iron stores. Cutting the cord prematurely would interrupt that transfer before birth, reducing the baby’s blood volume and potentially affecting oxygen delivery and iron reserves. That’s why this action should be avoided. Focus on supporting the perineum to reduce tearing and on preparing for immediate newborn care (drying, warming, assessing breathing, suctioning if needed). Rushing the birth at the expense of safety isn’t beneficial; allow the baby to be born before clamping and cutting the cord.

Delaying cord clamping is important during an imminent delivery because it allows continued placental transfusion to the newborn, increasing blood volume and iron stores. Cutting the cord prematurely would interrupt that transfer before birth, reducing the baby’s blood volume and potentially affecting oxygen delivery and iron reserves. That’s why this action should be avoided. Focus on supporting the perineum to reduce tearing and on preparing for immediate newborn care (drying, warming, assessing breathing, suctioning if needed). Rushing the birth at the expense of safety isn’t beneficial; allow the baby to be born before clamping and cutting the cord.