During a difficult delivery, which combination of actions is recommended?

• A. High-flow O2 only
• B. Keep mother warm only
• C. High-flow O2 and keep mother warm
• D. Rapid transport only

Answer: (C)

During a difficult delivery, the focus is on supporting both maternal oxygenation and thermal stability. Providing high-flow oxygen helps increase the oxygen content in the mother’s blood, boosting the amount of oxygen available to the fetus through the placental circulation, which can be crucial if there is fetal distress or hypoxia. Keeping the mother warm prevents cold stress and shivering, which can raise metabolic demand, compromise comfort, and potentially worsen uterine perfusion. Together, these two actions address the most immediate physiological needs: ensuring adequate oxygenation for both mother and baby and preventing energy-draining cold stress. Rapid transport is important, but it should accompany these immediate measures, not replace them.