A nurse is caring for a client in the labor and delivery unit.

Select the 4 findings that indicate a complication of labor.

A. Group B streptococcus β-hemolytic status: The client is GBS negative, which does not indicate a labor complication. This finding decreases the need for intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis and does not pose a risk to the fetus or labor progress at this time.

B. Maternal heart rate: The maternal heart rate is 110/min, which is elevated and may indicate early systemic infection, especially when paired with fever. Tachycardia during labor can signal maternal distress or infection and requires prompt assessment to prevent maternal and fetal complications.

C. Contraction pattern: Contractions are occurring every 5 minutes for the past hour but are not described as coordinated or progressing normally. In the presence of infection markers such as fever and tachycardia, this pattern may suggest dysfunctional labor, where infection or inflammation disrupts normal uterine activity.

D. Vaginal discharge: The discharge is described as malodorous and nitrazine-positive, findings that strongly suggest possible chorioamnionitis or another infectious process. Odorous fluid associated with ruptured membranes requires immediate provider notification due to risks of neonatal sepsis.

E. Cervical assessment: The client is now 3 cm dilated, which is appropriate for early labor in a primigravida and does not indicate a complication. This finding aligns with expected cervical changes leading toward active labor.

F. Pain rating: A pain score of 4 at rest and 8 during contractions is typical for early labor and does not represent a complication. Pain naturally increases as contractions strengthen and the cervix dilates, reflecting normal physiologic progression.

G. Temperature: A temperature of 38.7°C (101.7°F) indicates maternal fever, a significant concern during labor. Fever in combination with tachycardia and abnormal discharge suggests intra-amniotic infection, which can rapidly progress and threaten both maternal and fetal well-being.