A nurse is monitoring a client who is in the active phase of labor and has an electronic fetal monitor. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale Uterine contractions every 15 minutes are characteristic of the latent phase of labor, not the active phase. In the active phase, contractions typically become stronger, more frequent, and more regular, occurring every 2 to 5 minutes, signifying progressive cervical dilation. Choice B rationale A fetal heart rate (FHR) baseline of 166/min with minimal variability is concerning. While a baseline up to 160/min is generally normal, 166/min is slightly elevated, and minimal variability (5 bpm or less) can indicate fetal hypoxia or acidosis, necessitating further assessment and intervention. Normal FHR baseline is 110-160 bpm. Choice C rationale Late decelerations in FHR are non-reassuring findings indicative of uteroplacental insufficiency, meaning inadequate oxygen transfer to the fetus. These decelerations suggest potential fetal distress and require immediate intervention and reporting to the provider, not an expected finding in active labor. Choice D rationale Contraction duration of 75 seconds is an expected finding in the active phase of labor. During this phase, contractions typically last 45 to 90 seconds. This duration contributes to effective cervical effacement and dilation, signifying adequate uterine activity for labor progression.