New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

As the EMS provider assisting in an emergency childbirth, what should you do if the baby's head has completely emerged?

1. Gently pull on the baby's head

2. Apply pressure to the baby's head to avoid explosive delivery

3. Turn the baby's head to one side

4. Remove the cord if it is wrapped around the neck

The correct answer is: Remove the cord if it is wrapped around the neck

When assisting in an emergency childbirth, once the baby's head has completely emerged, it's crucial to assess the situation carefully. If the umbilical cord is wrapped around the baby's neck, it can pose a significant risk for the infant, potentially restricting blood flow and oxygen supply. Therefore, the appropriate action is to gently slip the cord off the neck if possible. Removing the cord if it is wrapped around the neck is important to ensure that the baby can breathe properly as the rest of the body is delivered. This action should be performed with caution, taking care not to pull on the cord or the baby, as this could cause harm. Other options, such as pulling on the baby's head or applying pressure, are not appropriate as they can lead to complications or injuries to both the mother and the baby. The best practice is to focus on maintaining a safe delivery for both, which involves addressing any issues like a cord wrap.