Which of the following is an advantage of delayed cord clamping?

Delayed cord clamping offers several benefits, one of which is the increased iron stores in the newborn. When the umbilical cord is clamped later, typically after the heart has stopped pulsating, more blood from the placenta flows into the newborn. This additional blood contains not only red blood cells but also essential nutrients, including iron.

Iron is crucial for the newborn, as it plays a vital role in the development of hemoglobin, which is necessary for transporting oxygen in the body. Adequate iron stores help prevent iron deficiency anemia in infants, particularly important in the first few months of life when they are rapidly growing and require more iron for development. Thus, the practice of delayed cord clamping supports better hematologic status in the neonate by enhancing their iron reserves, which can have positive implications for both immediate and long-term health.

Other options, while possibly related to different aspects of care, do not present the same direct benefit concerning iron levels and hematologic effects in newborns. Therefore, the advantage of increased iron stores clearly stands out as a significant reason to practice delayed cord clamping.