In an emergency in which the neonate's head is already delivering, the first action by the nurse should be to check for the presence of a cord around the neonate's neck. If the cord is present, the nurse should gently remove it from around the neck. The mother should be told to breathe gently and avoid forceful bearing-down efforts, which could lead to lacerations. Although blood and bodily fluid precautions are always present in client care, this is an emergency. If possible, the nurse should put on gloves. Suctioning the mouth can be done after the nurse has checked that the cord is not around the neonate's neck. Telling the mother that help is on the way is not reassuring because emergency medical technicians may take some time to arrive. Delivery is imminent because the neonate's head is delivering.
