Question

elena has been in labor for over 30 hours. the doctor can tell that the baby is in the birth canal but because of its positioning, it seems to be stuck there. after allowing elena to push on her own for several contractions and seeing no progress, the doctor decides to use forceps to help guide the baby out of the birth canal. what is most likely the reason that the doctor feels the need to intervene in the baby’s birth? (1 point) the baby could become deprived of oxygen, causing brain damage. the baby’s lungs could fill up with fluid, causing permanent lung damage. elena could experience tearing if the baby were to come on its own. the doctor needs to attend to another birth down the hall.

Explanation:

When a baby is stuck in the birth - canal for an extended period, the most critical concern is oxygen deprivation for the baby, which can lead to brain damage. Lungs filling with fluid is less of an immediate concern during this stage of labor. Tearing for the mother is a concern but not as life - threatening as the baby's oxygen supply. The doctor's need to attend another birth is not a valid reason for this intervention.

Answer:

The baby could become deprived of oxygen, causing brain damage.