vaginal examination key terms Flashcards
What is the Fundus?
The top portion of the uterus opposite the cervix
Where is the fundal height measured from and to?
From the top of the uterus to the pubic synthesis
What is the purpose of the fundal height being measured?
To assess the growth and development during pregnancy
What is the definition of lie?
The relationship of the long axis of the fetus to the long axis of the mother
What is the definition of engagement?
When the fetal head or buttocks have settled into the pelvis prior to labour
What is the definition of presentation?
The position of the fetus before birth. Refers to the part of the body that leads the way out through the birth canal(the presenting part)
How is normal presentation presented?
Cephalic Presentation (Head First)
How is abnormal presentation presented?
Occiput posterior presentation(Headfirst but facing up towards mothers abdomen) and Breech Presentation(Buttocks or sometimes the feet present first)
What is the definition of position?
Refers to whether the fetus is facing reward (towards mothers back) or forward (face up)
Why do you measure from the fundus to the synthesis pubis?
To detect growth of fetus is at a normal rate
What is the normal range of the fetal heart?
110 to 160 beats per minute
Why undertake abdominal palpation prior to an examination per vagina?
Its taken to determine the lie of the fetus and the presenting part.
