You are assessing a patient who delivered vaginally 48 hours ago. At this time, where would you expect to feel her fundus?
level of umbilicus
1 fingerbreadth/cm below umbilicus
2 fingerbreadth/cm below umbilicus
3 fingerbreadth/cm below umbilicus
The Correct Answer is C
A. This is expected immediately postpartum.
B. This is expected at 24 hours postpartum.
C. Immediately after birth, the fundus is at the level of the umbilicus. The uterus involutes (shrinks) approximately 1 cm (or 1 fingerbreadth) per day postpartum. 48 hours postpartum, the fundus should be 2 cm (or 2 fingerbreadths) below the umbilicus.
D. 3 cm below the umbilicus would be expected at 72 hours postpartum.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Supporting the uterus decreases the amount of pain." Incorrect. While proper support may reduce discomfort, the primary reason is structural support.
B. "This is necessary because the ligaments that hold the uterus are stretched." Correct. The uterus is enlarged postpartum, and the ligaments are weakened, making support necessary.
C. "This will decrease the severity of uterine bleeding." Not the primary reason, though proper fundal massage can aid in hemorrhage prevention.
D. "This will help with uterine involution." Incorrect. Uterine involution is driven by hormonal changes and contractions, not just support.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This is expected immediately postpartum.
B. This is expected at 24 hours postpartum.
C. Immediately after birth, the fundus is at the level of the umbilicus. The uterus involutes (shrinks) approximately 1 cm (or 1 fingerbreadth) per day postpartum. 48 hours postpartum, the fundus should be 2 cm (or 2 fingerbreadths) below the umbilicus.
D. 3 cm below the umbilicus would be expected at 72 hours postpartum.
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