What is the final step in the delivery process for a normal presentation?

• A. Puncture the amniotic sac
• B. Clamp and cut umbilical cord
• C. Deliver placenta
• D. Assist with resuscitation

Answer: (C)

In a normal delivery, the last stage is the third stage of labor, when the placenta separates from the uterine wall and is expelled through the birth canal. Delivering the placenta completes the birth process and helps prevent excessive bleeding, as the uterus then contracts to firmly plug the vessels at the placental site.

Puncturing the amniotic sac is an action that may occur earlier if the sac hasn’t ruptured yet; it is not the final step. Clamping and cutting the umbilical cord is done around the time the baby is born, not after the placenta has been delivered, so it’s not the final step. Assisting with resuscitation is only necessary if the newborn requires help breathing or circulation, not part of the normal sequence finishing with placental delivery.