Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract–Based NCC C-EFM References:

This tracing shows recurrent late decelerations accompanied by absent variability.

Per NICHD/NCC, a tracing is Category III if ANY of the following are present:

Absent variability AND recurrent late decelerations

Absent variability AND recurrent variable decelerations

Absent variability AND bradycardia

Sinusoidal pattern

In this strip:

Variability is absent

Decelerations are recurrent and late

The determining feature for the classification is absent variability, which indicates significant risk for fetal acidemia.

The contraction pattern (option B) does not determine category.

The deceleration type alone (option C) does not determine Category III without absent variability.

Thus, the classification is Category III because of absent variability.