Which finding in an active labor client should be reported to the provider?

In the context of monitoring fetal heart rate (FHR) during active labor, the normal baseline range is typically between 110 to 160 beats per minute. While a baseline of 140 beats per minute is well within this normal range, higher baselines can indicate potential issues that warrant further evaluation.

A baseline FHR of 160 beats per minute is at the upper end of normal but might not necessarily cause immediate concern. However, as the FHR rises above this range, particularly at 170 beats per minute, it indicates early signs of fetal tachycardia, which is defined as a baseline heart rate greater than 160 bpm sustained over a 10-minute period. This can be a response to various factors such as maternal fever, dehydration, or fetal distress.

The baseline of 180 beats per minute is significantly elevated and suggests a more concerning state of fetal distress or potential complications that must be promptly addressed. Such a finding likely warrants immediate intervention and reporting to the provider to assess the cause of the fetal tachycardia and manage any potential risks to the fetus.

Thus, a baseline of 170 beats per minute is a clear indicator of fetal tachycardia and should be reported to ensure timely assessment and intervention.