What assessment finding at a 32-week gestation visit should be reported?

• A. Fundal height of 30 cm
• B. Fundal height of 34 cm
• C. Fundal height of 38 cm
• D. Fundal height of 32 cm

Answer: (C)

During pregnancy, fundal height measurements are used to assess fetal growth and development. At 32 weeks of gestation, the fundal height should typically be around 30 to 34 cm, which corresponds to the week of pregnancy plus or minus 2 cm. Therefore, a fundal height of 38 cm is concerning because it is significantly larger than the expected range.

This larger fundal height may indicate several potential issues, such as excessive amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios), a macrosomic fetus (larger than average), or the possibility of multiple gestations. Each of these situations warrants further evaluation to ensure the health of both the mother and the fetus. Regular monitoring of fundal height provides crucial information regarding fetal growth, and deviations from the normative range can alert healthcare providers to possible complications that may need to be addressed.