A nurse is assisting in obtaining the fundal height measurement for a client who is at 32 weeks of gestation. Which of the following images indicates where the nurse should expect the client’s fundus to be located?
A.
The fundal height corresponds with approximately 16 weeks.
B.
The fundal height corresponds with approximately 20 weeks.
C.
The fundal height corresponds with approximately 32 weeks.
D.
The fundal height corresponds with approximately 24 weeks.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. The fundal height corresponds with approximately 32 weeks.
Explanation:
Fundal height measurement is an essential component of prenatal care used to assess fetal growth and development. Fundal height is measured from the top of the pubic symphysis to the top of the uterine fundus. This measurement, typically taken in centimeters, roughly corresponds to the number of weeks of gestation in a healthy pregnancy.
At 32 weeks of gestation, the uterine fundus should be approximately at the level of the umbilicus or slightly above it. This position aligns with the expected growth of the uterus as the pregnancy progresses. Here’s a breakdown of how fundal height changes throughout pregnancy:
- At 16 weeks of gestation: The uterus is still relatively low in the pelvis. The fundal height is typically at the level of the symphysis pubis. Therefore, option A is not correct for 32 weeks.
- At 20 weeks of gestation: The fundus reaches about the level of the umbilicus. By 32 weeks, the fundal height will be above this level, so option B is also incorrect for a 32-week measurement.
- At 24 weeks of gestation: The fundal height is usually a few centimeters below the umbilicus. At 32 weeks, the fundus should be higher than this level, making option D incorrect.
The fundal height measurement can help detect potential deviations from the normal growth pattern. For example, if the fundal height is significantly smaller or larger than expected, it could indicate issues such as fetal growth restriction or polyhydramnios.
In summary, for a client who is 32 weeks pregnant, the nurse should expect the fundal height to correspond closely with the 32-week gestational age, aligning with option C. Accurate measurement and interpretation of fundal height are crucial for monitoring the health and development of both the fetus and the mother.