What action should you take upon observing the umbilical cord protruding from the vagina during labor?

When the umbilical cord is observed protruding from the vagina during labor, the appropriate action is to push the infant's head away from the cord. This situation can occur in cases of a cord prolapse, which can compress the umbilical cord and compromise blood flow to the fetus. By pushing the infant's head upward, you relieve pressure on the cord, thereby improving circulation and reducing the risk of fetal distress.

This action is critical because maintaining blood flow is paramount for the health of the fetus during delivery. It helps to stabilize the situation until definitive care can be provided. Other actions, such as pulling on the cord, covering it with a dressing, or pushing it back into the vagina can be harmful and lead to adverse outcomes, as they do not address the primary issue of cord compression and may even exacerbate the situation.