2025 New York EMT-B Practice Exam – Complete Prep Resource

In a breach delivery where the baby's head does not emerge after the body, the priority is to ensure that the newborn can breathe. Establishing an airway for the baby is critical because if the head is stuck, there could be a risk of suffocation or injury. By using a gloved hand to create an airway, you help facilitate breathing and prevent any potential for the baby to suffer from oxygen deprivation.

While providing oxygen to the mother can be important during labor, it does not directly address the immediate need of the baby, making it less critical in this specific scenario. Transporting the mother immediately might not be practical or safe if the baby is in distress, as childbirth needs to be managed carefully. Waiting for the head to naturally deliver could lead to severe complications for the baby if there are issues with the delivery process. Hence, promptly establishing an airway is the most effective and life-saving intervention in this situation.