A client at 39 weeks is in active labor after spontaneous rupture of membranes. Click the fetal heart-rate segment whose shape and timing are most consistent with intermittent umbilical cord compression.

B. B contains an abrupt decrease whose onset-to-nadir is 12 seconds, consistent with a variable deceleration.

The nadir drops 45 beats/min, and the decrease lasts 46 seconds. Its abrupt onset distinguishes it from the gradual decreases. Cord compression is associated with variable decelerations; the whole tracing and clinical condition still guide management.

The observations are fictional teaching data. Apply the stated context; the selected feature does not by itself replace a complete bedside assessment.

Compare onset-to-nadir speed and timing against the contraction.

Compare onset-to-nadir speed and timing against the contraction.

A falls gradually and reaches its nadir with the contraction peak. C falls gradually with a nadir after the contraction peak, a different mechanism requiring its own assessment. D is an increase, not a deceleration.

• Fetal pattern and contraction timing — Compare onset-to-nadir speed and timing against the contraction.
• Comparison with context — C is also concerning, but its gradual delayed timing does not support the mechanism asked about.