A newborn was delivered pre-term weighing 2700 grams with. Apgar scores of 4 and 6, respectively. When the mother had presented to the Obstetrical Triage Unit, she was already 7 centimeters dilated and fully effaced. Her due date was unknown as she had no parental care. The infant showed signs of fetal distress and was finally delivered by Cesarean section. At birth a large, thin, membranous sac was protruding from the umbilical base. What is the priority nursing intervention at birth?