Which of the following is an indication for an emergency c-section?

An emergency c-section is indicated in situations where the fetus is in distress, and the situation requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Sustained bradycardia of less than 120 beats per minute for over 10 minutes is a concerning sign that the baby may be experiencing oxygen deprivation or other issues. Prolonged fetal bradycardia suggests that the fetus is not tolerating labor well, meaning there may be an underlying problem affecting blood flow or oxygenation. In such cases, a timely c-section can help expedite delivery and minimize risks to both the mother and the baby.

Other choices may not indicate an immediate need for an emergency c-section. Normal fetal heart rate patterns would typically suggest that the fetus is healthy and not in distress, thus reducing urgency for surgical intervention. Uterine hypertonicity can complicate labor but does not inherently call for an emergency c-section unless it is combined with signs of fetal distress. Maternal hypertension, while serious and needing management, does not automatically necessitate an immediate c-section unless it is accompanied by other factors indicating fetal or maternal compromise.