A nurse is preparing to perform Leopold maneuvers on a pregnant client to determine fetal presentation and position. Place the steps of this assessment in the correct chronological order.
- 1Palpate the uterine fundus to identify the fetal part present in the upper abdomen.
- 2Palpate the sides of the client's abdomen to locate the fetal back and small parts.
- 3Grasp the lower abdomen just above the symphysis pubis to confirm the presenting part.
- 4Face the client's feet and palpate the lower abdomen to assess fetal descent and attitude.
Answer
The correct sequence for Leopold maneuvers is: palpating the fundus, palpating the sides of the abdomen, grasping the lower abdomen above the symphysis pubis, and finally facing the client's feet to palpate for fetal descent.
Leopold maneuvers follow a systematic, four-step approach to determine fetal lie, presentation, position, and attitude. The nurse starts at the top of the uterus (fundus) while facing the client to identify the fetal pole. Next, the nurse palpates down the sides to find the fetal back. Then, the nurse grasps the lower abdomen to identify the presenting part. Finally, the nurse turns to face the client's feet and palpates the lower abdomen to assess fetal descent and attitude.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Leopold Maneuvers Assessment Sequence