A nurse is preparing to measure the fundal height of a client who is at 22 weeks of gestation. At which location should the nurse expect to palpate the fundus?

A. Slightly below the umbilicus: By 20 weeks of gestation, the fundus typically reaches the level of the umbilicus. At 22 weeks, it would be expected to have risen above this point, making this location inconsistent with the client’s gestational age. B. Slightly above the umbilicus: Fundal height generally corresponds with gestational age in centimeters between 18 and 30 weeks. At 22 weeks, the fundus is usually palpable about 1–2 cm above the umbilicus, aligning with normal growth expectations. C. 3 cm below the umbilicus: This location would suggest a fundal height consistent with an earlier gestational age, such as 16 weeks. It would be abnormal for the fundus to be this low at 22 weeks unless there is fetal growth restriction or inaccurate dating. D. 3 cm above the umbilicus: This height corresponds more closely with 24–25 weeks of gestation. At 22 weeks, the fundus would not typically be this far above the umbilicus unless there is polyhydramnios or a larger-than-expected fetus.