How should the umbilical cord be cut after delivery?

The recommended procedure for cutting the umbilical cord involves placing one clamp approximately 10 cm from the baby's body and then cutting between the two clamps. This method is significant for several reasons.

Firstly, clamping the cord at a distance from the infant provides a secure and controlled way to separate the baby from the placenta while minimizing the risk of bleeding or injury to the baby's umbilical vessels. By doing this, the chance of complications such as excessive blood loss from the cord or damage to the umbilical cord structure is reduced.

Additionally, cutting the cord between the clamps allows for a clean and safe procedure, as the clamp closest to the baby serves to prevent any potential blood from flowing back toward the infant, ensuring that any residual blood from the placenta can be contained. This practice also adheres to safety and procedural protocols commonly taught in primary care paramedic training.

In contrast, cutting the cord without clamping could lead to uncontrolled bleeding and a higher risk of injury. Clamping at the baby's belly button or cutting too close to the placenta are not ideal practices, as they may not provide adequate protection for the infant and could result in complications associated with improperly managed umbilical cord cutting.