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    ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam

    During a delivery complicated by shoulder dystocia, the baby’s head retracts back against the perineum after it emerges, a phenomenon known as ‘turtling’. Which of the following is the most appropriate immediate action for the healthcare provider to take?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A rationaleWaiting for the next contraction is inappropriate in shoulder dystocia, where immediate action is required to prevent fetal hypoxia. Delaying intervention can lead to serious complications for the newborn.Choice B rationaleThe McRoberts maneuver, involving hyperflexion of the mother's legs, widens the pelvis, facilitating shoulder delivery in cases of shoulder dystocia. This technique reduces shoulder impaction effectively.Choice C rationaleApplying fundal pressure is contraindicated in shoulder dystocia as it may worsen the impaction by compressing the fetal shoulders against the maternal pelvis, increasing the risk of injury.Choice D rationaleVacuum extraction is not recommended for shoulder dystocia management. This obstetric emergency requires specific maneuvers, like the McRoberts maneuver, to relieve the impacted shoulder.

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