Category 3 tracings include which combination of conditions?

Category 3 fetal heart rate tracings are defined by specific patterns that indicate an abnormal fetal status and the potential for compromised fetal well-being. These tracings require immediate evaluation and intervention.

The combination that characterizes Category 3 tracings includes absent baseline variability, recurrent late decelerations, and bradycardia. Each of these components signals a concerning condition that suggests the fetus may be under stress.

In regard to the conditions described:

• Absent baseline variability indicates a lack of fluctuation in the fetal heart rate, which can suggest inadequate oxygenation or an underlying issue with fetal health.
• Bradycardia, defined as a fetal heart rate below 110 beats per minute, can reflect significant fetal distress, particularly when combined with other concerning variables.
• Recurrent late decelerations occur after a contraction and typically indicate that the fetus is experiencing a decrease in oxygenation, often due to uteroplacental insufficiency.

Since all the mentioned scenarios (recurrent variable decelerations and minimal variability; absent baseline variability and bradycardia; absent baseline variability and recurrent late decels) fit into the Category 3 classification, notably when combined, they clearly demonstrate a critical need for intervention. Therefore, it is correct to state that Category