MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

Preparation for childbirth delivery should always begin with which of the following actions FIRST?

1. Putting gloves on

2. Giving verbal commands to the mother to breathe

3. Reassuring the mother

4. Checking for signs of delivery

The correct answer is: Putting gloves on

The first action in the preparation for childbirth delivery should be to ensure a sanitary and safe environment for both the mother and child. Putting on gloves is essential to prevent contamination and reduce the risk of infection during the delivery process. This step establishes a barrier between the clinician and any potential pathogens, which is crucial as the delivery involves intimate and direct contact with bodily fluids. While other actions, such as reassuring the mother or checking for signs of delivery, are important parts of the delivery process, they should come after ensuring that protective measures—like wearing gloves—are in place. These subsequent steps can then help manage the delivery environment and support the mother emotionally and physically, but the foundation of safety starts with proper hygiene and protection through the use of gloves.