Question 1
A nurse is caring for a client who is 14 weeks of gestation. At which of the following locations should the nurse place the Doppler device when assessing the fetal heart rate?
- A. Midline 2 to 3 cm (0.8 to 1.2 in) above the symphysis pubis
- B. Left upper abdomen
- C. Two fingerbreadths above the umbilicus
- D. Lateral at the xiphoid process
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Midline 2 to 3 cm (0.8 to 1.2 in) above the symphysis pubis
The correct answer is A: 'Midline 2 to 3 cm (0.8 to 1.2 in) above the symphysis pubis.' At 14 weeks of gestation, the uterus is typically still within the pelvis and not palpable above the umbilicus. Placing the Doppler device midline just above the symphysis pubis allows the nurse to locate the fetal heart rate, as the fetus is still low in the pelvis during the first trimester. Placing the device in other locations such as the left upper abdomen, two fingerbreadths above the umbilicus, or lateral at the xiphoid process would not be appropriate for locating the fetal heart rate at this gestational age. It is important for the nurse to understand the anatomical landmarks and fetal positioning to accurately assess the fetal heart rate during pregnancy.