In a prolapsed cord emergency, which action is contraindicated?

• A. Push the cord back into the uterus
• B. Elevate the pelvis and knee-chest
• C. Call for immediate delivery
• D. Moist heat and rest

Answer: (A)

Relieving cord compression and getting the baby to delivery quickly is the main idea in a prolapsed cord emergency. Pushing the cord back into the uterus is contraindicated because it can push the cord further into the birth canal, worsening compression and risking fetal hypoxia or cord injury. The safest approach is to position the mother to relieve pressure on the cord—elevating the hips and placing her in a knee-chest or similar position to shift the presenting part off the cord—while keeping the cord moist with sterile saline-soaked gauze. Call for immediate delivery and prepare for rapid transport, monitoring the mother and fetal status as you stabilize. Moist heat and rest do not address the problem and would delay urgent care.