The nurse is caring for a client in labor at term. The nurse reviews the external monitor tracing below. The nurse identifies that the deceleration pattern seen indicates which of the following?
Choices:

Choice A rationale

Administering oxytocin during a contraction stress test is to assess uteroplacental insufficiency, not to identify pain tolerance. The test evaluates fetal response to contractions.

Choice B rationale

Positive contraction stress tests are associated with poor fetal outcomes, indicating fetal distress during contractions due to inadequate placental perfusion.

Choice C rationale

A negative result in a contraction stress test indicates adequate placental function and fetal well-being, suggesting the fetus can tolerate labor without distress.

Choice D rationale

A positive test result suggests potential fetal compromise, including increased risk of fetal death, growth restriction, low Apgar scores, and need for C-section or resuscitation.

Choice A rationale

Prostaglandins are involved in labor but primarily act to ripen the cervix and induce uterine contractions, not prolong labor. They are produced by the fetus and placenta during pregnancy.

Choice B rationale

Catecholamines, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, are released in response to stress and anxiety, leading to vasoconstriction, reduced blood flow to the uterus, and prolonged labor. They are produced by the adrenal glands.

Choice C rationale

Oxytocin is a hormone that stimulates uterine contractions and accelerates labor. It is often administered to induce or augment labor, rather than prolong it. It is produced in the hypothalamus.

Choice D rationale

Orexin, also known as hypocretin, is involved in regulating arousal, wakefulness, and appetite, but has no direct role in labor. It is produced in the hypothalamus.