A pregnant client's mother is worried that her daughter is not "big enough" at 20 weeks of gestation. The nurse palpates and measures the fundal height at 20 cm, which is even with the woman's umbilicus. Which should the nurse report to the client and her mother?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At 20 weeks, the fundus is usually located at the umbilical level. Because the uterus grows in a predictable pattern, obstetric nurses should know that the uterus of 20 weeks' gestation is located at the level of the umbilicus. Lightening has not yet occurred. At 20 weeks, the uterus should be at the umbilical level. The descent of the fetal head (lightening) occurs in late pregnancy. Waiting until the next appointment avoids the direct question and might increase the anxiety of the mother and grandmother.

A Pregnant Client's Mother Is Worried That Her Daughter Is