What is the purpose of obtaining cord bloods after clamping of the cord?

The purpose of obtaining cord blood after clamping the umbilical cord is primarily to evaluate blood type and any infections. Cord blood collection allows healthcare providers to perform various tests that can determine the infant's blood type, screen for hemolytic disease of the newborn, and assess for congenital infections or any potential pathogens present in the bloodstream.

This practice is important because early identification of issues such as infection can significantly impact an infant's health and prompt timely medical intervention. Additionally, knowing the blood type is crucial for managing any potential transfusions and ensuring the infant receives appropriate care.

In contrast to other potential options, while assessing fetal oxygen levels and checking for genetic disorders are important aspects of neonatal evaluation, they are not the primary purposes of routine cord blood collection. Fetal oxygen levels typically are assessed during labor through different monitoring techniques, and genetic disorders are usually evaluated through specific tests and screenings conducted to identify potential inherited conditions, rather than immediately through cord blood analysis.