A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 12 hr postpartum. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
A.
Fundus soft, 2 fingerbreadths below the umbilicus.
B.
Fundus firm, 2 fingerbreadths above the umbilicus.
C.
Fundus soft, to the right of the umbilicus.
D.
Fundus firm, at the level of the umbilicus.
For a client who is 12 hours postpartum, the expected finding for the fundus is:
B. Fundus firm, 2 fingerbreadths above the umbilicus.
Explanation:
- A. Fundus soft, 2 fingerbreadths below the umbilicus: At 12 hours postpartum, the fundus should not be below the umbilicus. It typically begins to descend from the level of the umbilicus, but it should still be palpable above it.
- B. Fundus firm, 2 fingerbreadths above the umbilicus: This is a normal finding. Within the first 12 hours postpartum, the fundus should be firm and about 1-2 fingerbreadths above the umbilicus. It will begin to descend from this position gradually over the following days.
- C. Fundus soft, to the right of the umbilicus: A soft fundus could indicate uterine atony, which is a condition where the uterus fails to contract properly after delivery. Additionally, the fundus being to the right might suggest bladder distension. However, the fundus should ideally be firm and centered above the umbilicus.
- D. Fundus firm, at the level of the umbilicus: It is common for the fundus to be slightly above or at the level of the umbilicus immediately postpartum, but typically, it will be slightly above the umbilicus at 12 hours postpartum. The fundus will gradually move downward in the subsequent days.
Thus, B. Fundus firm, 2 fingerbreadths above the umbilicus accurately reflects the expected assessment finding for a client who is 12 hours postpartum.