What is the appropriate action the nurse takes to assist in the delivery of the placenta after the newborn is delivered?

In assisting with the delivery of the placenta after the newborn is born, the appropriate action involves pulling gently on the cord as the mother bears down. This technique is used to facilitate the delivery of the placenta, which occurs during the third stage of labor. When the mother exerts pressure, it can help detach the placenta from the uterine wall. By gently pulling on the cord during this time, the nurse can assist this natural process, encouraging the placenta to come out more easily, while ensuring that the cord is not pulled too hard to avoid any complications, such as cord rupture or uterine inversion.

Other actions listed, such as applying gentle pressure to the fundus, waiting for spontaneous delivery, and massaging the abdomen, may have their roles but do not specifically assist in the delivery of the placenta in the same direct manner. For instance, applying pressure to the fundus primarily helps in promoting uterine contraction after delivery has occurred rather than during the placental delivery process. Similarly, waiting for the placenta to deliver spontaneously is typically acceptable, but it may not be the most proactive approach, especially if there are signs of retained placenta. Massaging the abdomen does help in stimulating contractions but is not specifically oriented to assist in the delivery of the placenta as