In the prolapsed umbilical cord scenario, what is the immediate plan of care?

In the prolapsed umbilical cord scenario, what is the immediate plan of care?

• A. Prepare for Surgical Intervention or Cesarean Section
• B. Elevate the presenting part and call for immediate assistance
• C. Push the presenting part downward
• D. Wait for spontaneous resolution

Answer: (A)

A prolapsed umbilical cord creates ongoing compression of the cord, risking rapid fetal hypoxia. The immediate plan is to prepare for urgent delivery through surgical means, typically an emergency cesarean section, because speeding delivery is the only reliable way to relieve the cord compression and protect the fetus. While you’re arranging for delivery, you can take supportive steps to reduce pressure on the cord—such as keeping the presenting part elevated off the cord, positioning the mother to lessen compression, and calling for help—but these are interim measures. Pushing the presenting part downward would worsen cord compression, and waiting for spontaneous resolution is not appropriate in this emergency.

A prolapsed umbilical cord creates ongoing compression of the cord, risking rapid fetal hypoxia. The immediate plan is to prepare for urgent delivery through surgical means, typically an emergency cesarean section, because speeding delivery is the only reliable way to relieve the cord compression and protect the fetus. While you’re arranging for delivery, you can take supportive steps to reduce pressure on the cord—such as keeping the presenting part elevated off the cord, positioning the mother to lessen compression, and calling for help—but these are interim measures. Pushing the presenting part downward would worsen cord compression, and waiting for spontaneous resolution is not appropriate in this emergency.