Delayed cord clamping: a collaborative practice to improve outcomes

Neonatal Netw. 2013 Sep-Oct;32(5):369-73; quiz 374-7. doi: 10.1891/0730-0832.32.5.369.

Abstract

Delayed cord clamping is a collaboration between the obstetric team and the neonatal team. Although the optimal timing for clamping the umbilical cord after birth continues to be subject to study, delaying clamping for at least 30-60 seconds, with the newborn held at or below the level of the uterus/placenta supports normal physiology and has proven benefits. Practical issues such as thermoregulation and equipment can be overcome with team collaboration and prebriefing planning. Neonatal nurses who attend deliveries are perfectly poised to influence this practice and improve short- and long-term outcomes for their patients.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Cooperative Behavior*
  • Female
  • Fetal Blood / physiology
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Interdisciplinary Communication*
  • Jaundice, Neonatal / blood
  • Jaundice, Neonatal / nursing
  • Jaundice, Neonatal / prevention & control
  • Oxygen / blood
  • Placenta / blood supply
  • Pregnancy
  • Premature Birth / physiopathology*
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Resuscitation / nursing*
  • Surgical Instruments*
  • Term Birth / physiology*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Umbilical Cord / surgery*

Substances

  • Oxygen