a. A prolapsed umbilical cord occurs when the umbilical cord precedes the presenting part of the fetus so that the blood circulating inside the cord is clamped off by the passing fetus through the birth canal.

This is considered an obstetric emergency.

b. Nursing implications are listed below.

(1) Monitor the fetal heart tones per orders.

(2) Examine the patient’s vaginal canal to determine the presence of a cord.

(3) Notify your supervisor immediately.