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Multiple Choice
At 20 weeks' gestation, the nurse understands that the maternal uterus should be located at which anatomical landmark?
A
Just above the symphysis pubis
B
Midway between the umbilicus and xiphoid process
C
At the level of the xiphoid process
D
At the level of the umbilicus
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the anatomical landmarks mentioned in the problem: The symphysis pubis is located at the lower part of the pelvis, the umbilicus is the belly button, and the xiphoid process is the lower part of the sternum.
Recall the physiological changes during pregnancy: The uterus expands as the fetus grows, and its position changes relative to anatomical landmarks over time. At 20 weeks' gestation, the uterus is typically at the level of the umbilicus.
Relate the gestational age to uterine growth: By 20 weeks, the uterus has grown sufficiently to reach the umbilicus, which is a midpoint landmark between the pelvis and the sternum.
Eliminate incorrect options: The uterus is not just above the symphysis pubis at 20 weeks (this occurs earlier in pregnancy), nor is it midway between the umbilicus and xiphoid process or at the level of the xiphoid process (these occur later in pregnancy).
Conclude that the correct anatomical landmark for the maternal uterus at 20 weeks' gestation is at the level of the umbilicus, based on the typical progression of uterine growth during pregnancy.