Which postpartum assessment evaluates uterine involution?

Which postpartum assessment evaluates uterine involution?

• A. Monitor bladder distention
• B. Assess the fundus for size, consistency, and position
• C. Remove epidural catheter
• D. Continue to assess client's sensory and motor function

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that uterine involution is evaluated by examining the fundus. Postpartum, the uterus should progressively shrink and move down the abdomen, and you gauge this by palpating the fundus for its size, firmness, and position. A properly involuting uterus feels firm, is located midline, and is at or below the level of the umbilicus, descending about 1 centimeter per day. If the fundus feels boggy or soft, that suggests uterine atony and a risk of hemorrhage, signaling a need for intervention such as fundal massage and addressing causes of atony. If the fundus is not midline or is higher than expected, this can indicate bladder distention or displacement, which should be addressed because proper involution depends on the uterus being in the correct position. While other postpartum checks (like bladder status or motor/sensory function) are important for overall care, they do not directly assess how involution is progressing.

The main idea is that uterine involution is evaluated by examining the fundus. Postpartum, the uterus should progressively shrink and move down the abdomen, and you gauge this by palpating the fundus for its size, firmness, and position. A properly involuting uterus feels firm, is located midline, and is at or below the level of the umbilicus, descending about 1 centimeter per day. If the fundus feels boggy or soft, that suggests uterine atony and a risk of hemorrhage, signaling a need for intervention such as fundal massage and addressing causes of atony. If the fundus is not midline or is higher than expected, this can indicate bladder distention or displacement, which should be addressed because proper involution depends on the uterus being in the correct position. While other postpartum checks (like bladder status or motor/sensory function) are important for overall care, they do not directly assess how involution is progressing.