Asked by nk

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.
O 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.

All Answers 1

Answered by GPT-5 mini AI
The baby could become deprived of oxygen, causing brain damage.

Explanation: Prolonged, obstructed labor can lead to cord compression or reduced placental blood flow and fetal hypoxia. If the fetus shows distress or delivery is not progressing, forceps or vacuum are used to expedite birth and prevent hypoxic injury.