Question

A nurse is performing a routine assessment on a client who is at 18 weeks of gestation. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

a) Quickening reported by the client
b) Fundal height at the xiphoid process
c) Fetal heart tones audible with a Doppler
d) Braxton Hicks contractions

Answer 1

At 18 weeks of gestation, the nurse should expect to find the fundal height at the xiphoid process and Braxton Hicks contractions.

Step-by-step explanation:

At 18 weeks of gestation, the nurse should expect to find the following:

• Fundal height at the xiphoid process: The fundal height is the measurement from the top of the uterus to the pubic bone. At 18 weeks, the fundus should be around the level of the umbilicus (belly button).
• Braxton Hicks contractions: These are mild, irregular contractions that can occur throughout pregnancy. They are usually painless and do not indicate preterm labor.

Therefore, the correct answer is d) Braxton Hicks contractions.