A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 12 hours postpartum following a spontaneous vaginal delivery.
The nurse should expect to find the uterine fundus at which of the following positions on the client’s abdomen?
At 1 cm above the umbilicus.
One fingerbreadth above the symphysis pubis.
To the right of the umbilicus.
Three fingerbreadths above the umbilicus.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
At 1 cm above the umbilicus is the expected position of the uterine fundus 12 hours postpartum. After delivery, the fundus is typically at the level of the umbilicus and then descends approximately 1 cm per day. At 12 hours postpartum, it is normal for the fundus to be slightly above the umbilicus.
Choice B rationale
One fingerbreadth above the symphysis pubis is not the expected position of the fundus 12 hours postpartum. This position is more typical several days postpartum as the uterus continues to involute and return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Choice C rationale
To the right of the umbilicus is not a normal finding and may indicate a full bladder, which can displace the uterus. The nurse should assist the client to void and then reassess the fundal position.
Choice D rationale
Three fingerbreadths above the umbilicus is not expected 12 hours postpartum. This position may indicate uterine atony or subinvolution, which requires further assessment and intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Inserting a urinary catheter is not the first action to take when the fundus is displaced to the right of midline. The displacement is often due to a full bladder, and the client should be encouraged to void first.
Choice B rationale
Massaging the fundus is appropriate if the uterus is boggy, but in this case, the fundus is firm. The displacement is likely due to a full bladder.
Choice C rationale
Having the client urinate is the correct action. A full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly, which can lead to postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice D rationale
Administering analgesia is not relevant to the issue of a displaced fundus. The priority is to address the cause of the displacement, which is likely a full bladder.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A cervical or perineal laceration would typically result in continuous bleeding rather than a gush that stops. The uterus would also not be firm and midline if there were a significant laceration.
Choice B rationale
Abnormally excessive lochia rubra flow would be continuous and not stop after a gush. The uterus being firm and midline indicates that the bleeding is not excessive.
Choice C rationale
A normal postural discharge of lochia occurs when pooled blood in the vagina is expelled upon standing or changing position. This is common and expected in the postpartum period.
Choice D rationale
A vaginal hematoma would present with localized pain and swelling, and the bleeding would not stop suddenly. The uterus being firm and midline also indicates that a hematoma is unlikely.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.