During labor, which assessment finding would prompt the nurse to notify the health care provider?

• A. Membranes rupture and amniotic fluid is green.
• B. Late decelerations are noted on the external fetal monitor.
• C. Contractions are infrequent.
• D. FHR 150 beats per minute.

Answer: (B)

Late decelerations point to uteroplacental insufficiency and fetal hypoxia, making them the most urgent finding to report. These decelerations begin after the start of a contraction and do not return to baseline until after the contraction ends, signaling impaired oxygen transfer to the fetus. Prompt provider notification is essential so actions can be taken—such as stopping or reducing any uterotonic agent, repositioning the mother to improve placental perfusion (often left lateral), providing supplemental oxygen, maintaining IV fluids, and closely monitoring or preparing for possible rapid delivery if the pattern persists. Other findings like meconium-stained fluid, a fetal heart rate of 150 bpm, or infrequent contractions can be concerning under certain circumstances but do not indicate fetal distress as clearly as late decelerations.