A nurse is caring for a client who is in labour and notes that the umbilical cord is prolapsed. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Wrapping the cord with petroleum gauze is not recommended. Handling the cord directly can lead to vasospasm and worsen the situation. Choice B reason: The Trendelenburg position involves placing the mother with her head lower than her pelvis. This position helps to alleviate pressure on the umbilical cord, reducing the risk of cord compression and compromising blood flow to the baby. Additionally, the nurse should also manually elevate the presenting part of the fetus off the umbilical cord to further relieve pressure. These actions can help mitigate the potential complications associated with umbilical cord prolapse until further medical interventions can be implemented. Choice C reason: Evaluate uterine tone. While evaluating uterine tone is an important part of the overall assessment during labour, it is not the priority action in the case of umbilical cord prolapse. The immediate concern is to relieve pressure on the cord. Choice D reason: Option D: Apply fundal pressure. Fundal pressure should not be applied during umbilical cord prolapse as it may push the baby's presenting part further onto the cord, worsening the situation.