Which of the following is a sign of placental insufficiency?

A sign of placental insufficiency is the presence of late decelerations. Late decelerations occur when there is a decrease in the fetal heart rate that begins after a contraction and usually returns to baseline after the contraction ends. This pattern indicates that the fetus is not receiving enough oxygen due to a compromised placental blood flow, which can occur in situations such as maternal hypertension, uterine hyperstimulation, or placental abruption.

In this context, late decelerations are particularly concerning as they suggest sustained fetal stress and potential hypoxia, prompting the need for immediate intervention to address the underlying issues affecting placental perfusion and fetal well-being. Recognizing late decelerations as a critical sign allows healthcare providers to act swiftly to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus.