A nurse is about to measure the fundal height of a patient who is 22 weeks pregnant.
Where should the nurse anticipate feeling the fundus?

Choice A rationale

Hypertension is the most common risk factor for placental abruption. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta partly or completely separates from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery. This can decrease or block the baby’s supply of oxygen and nutrients and cause heavy bleeding in the mother. Chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) is a known risk factor for placental abruption.

Choice B rationale

While blunt force trauma can be a cause of placental abruption, it is not the most common risk factor. Trauma or injury to the abdomen can cause placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.

Choice C rationale

Cigarette smoking is a known risk factor for placental abruption, but it is not the most common risk factor. Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.

Choice D rationale

Cocaine use is a known risk factor for placental abruption, but it is not the most common risk factor. Use of cocaine during pregnancy can increase the risk of placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.

Choice A rationale

Bleeding or spotting can accompany implantation. This is a common occurrence and does not necessarily indicate a problem with the pregnancy. It happens when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. Some women may mistake this bleeding for a light period, but it’s a sign of pregnancy.

Choice B rationale

Fertilization typically takes place in the outer third of the fallopian tube. After ovulation, the egg travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus. If sperm are present in the fallopian tube at this time, fertilization can occur. This is a normal part of the reproductive process.

Choice C rationale

Sperm can remain viable in the woman’s reproductive tract for 2 to 3 days. This means that intercourse does not have to coincide exactly with ovulation in order to achieve pregnancy. The sperm can survive long enough to fertilize the egg when it is released.

Choice D rationale

The statement “Implantation occurs between 2 and 3 weeks after conception” is incorrect and requires intervention by the nurse. Implantation actually occurs about 6-10 days after ovulation, which is less than 2 weeks after conception.