A nurse in labor and delivery is caring for a client. Following delivery of the placenta, the nurse examines the umbilical cord. Which of the following vessels should the nurse expect to observe in the umbilical cord?

A. Two veins and one artery is an abnormal configuration. This pattern is not consistent with normal fetal circulation and may indicate a congenital anomaly. B. One artery and one vein (single umbilical artery) is a known variation, but it is considered abnormal and can be associated with renal, cardiac, or chromosomal anomalies. C. The normal umbilical cord contains two arteries and one vein. The umbilical vein carries oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus, supporting growth and development. The two umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus back to the placenta for elimination. This arrangement ensures efficient bidirectional circulation between the fetus and placenta. Inspecting the cord after birth helps the nurse identify abnormalities that may require further evaluation. D. Two arteries and two veins is not a typical configuration and may suggest a congenital anomaly or cord malformation.