A nurse is assessing a client who is 28 weeks pregnant during a routine prenatal visit.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect when measuring the fundal height?
A nurse is assessing a client who is 28 weeks pregnant during a routine prenatal visit.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect when measuring the fundal height?
A. The fundal height is at the level of the xiphoid process
[7%]
B. The fundal height measures 32 cm
[5%]
C. The fundal height is at the level of the umbilicus
[24%]
D. The fundal height measures 28 cm
[63%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Maternal & Newborn Health
Lesson
Antepartum
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice D is correct. From approximately 18 to 30 weeks gestation, fundal height in centimeters roughly correlates with the number of weeks of gestation. At 28 weeks, a fundal height of 28 cm is within normal limits and expected.
Choice A is incorrect. The fundus typically reaches the xiphoid process around 36 to 40 weeks gestation. At 28 weeks, the fundus is well below this level.
Choice B is incorrect. A fundal height measuring 32 cm at 28 weeks could indicate macrosomia, polyhydramnios, or incorrect dating, and requires further evaluation.
Choice C is incorrect. The fundus is at the level of the umbilicus at approximately 20 weeks gestation, not 28 weeks.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Routine Exams
28.3 Routine Prenatal Screening
Additional Info
✓ Fundal height is the measurement (in centimeters) from the symphysis pubis to the top of the uterine fundus. It helps assess fetal growth, gestational age, and amniotic fluid volume during pregnancy.
Clinical Purpose of Measuring Fundal Height
- Estimate gestational age
- Monitor fetal growth patterns
- Detect intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or macrosomia
- Identify abnormal amniotic fluid levels (polyhydramnios or oligohydramnios)
- Confirm multiple gestations
- Assist in tracking uterine involution postpartum
