Maternity Nursing Q 104

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When the nurse palpates the suprapubic area of the mother and found that the presenting part is still movable, the right term for this observation that the fetus is

  

     A. Engaged

     B. Descended

     C. Floating

     D. Internal Rotation

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Floating

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The term floating means the fetal presenting part has not entered/descended into the pelvic inlet. If the fetal head has entered the pelvic inlet, it is said to be engaged.

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Option A: If the fetal head accommodates two fingerbreadths above pelvic brim, it is said to be engaged.

Option B: Using the rule of fifths, the distance between the base and vertex of the fetal head is divided into five equal parts. Each fifth corresponds to 2 cm or approximately one transverse fingerbreadth.

Option D: As the head descends, the presenting part, usually in the transverse position, is rotated about 45° to anteroposterior (AP) position under the symphysis. Internal rotation brings the AP diameter of the head in line with the AP diameter of the pelvic outlet.

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