A Synthesis of Literature on the Timing, Clamping, and Cutting of Umbilical Cord in Newborn Babies
Timing and clamping of umbilical cord remain one of the apparent but unresolved issues in midwifery and obstetric practices, with some literature favouring late clamping (more than1minute) and others immediate clamping (less than1minute). This study aims to analyze evidence surrounding timing of clamping umbilical cord in order to arrive at a conclusion with the evidence that is more appealing. A literature review method was adopted in synthesizing the available evidence. Educational databases searched include MEDLINE, CINAHL, British Nursing Index and Google scholar, out of which 11 articles were selected in line with the inclusion criteria. It was identified that delayed umbilical clamping is more evidenced-based and beneficial practice to both the newborn babies and their mothers. Hence, this study recommends clamping of the umbilical cord after1minute of delivery.
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