Final answer:
A deceleration lasting longer than 10 minutes typically indicates fetal distress, a condition that may require emergency medical intervention to ensure the safety of the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a deceleration lasts for longer than 10 minutes, it usually indicates fetal distress. This condition can signal that the fetus is not getting enough oxygen, potentially due to prolonged or intense uterine contractions that limit oxygenated blood flow. In such scenarios, it's essential to provide immediate medical attention to prevent complications, which may involve emergency birth procedures to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.
The subject matter of this question is related to the concept of acceleration, which is the rate of change of velocity. However, the question primarily focuses on the clinical interpretation of prolonged deceleration from a medical standpoint, rather than a physics perspective.