Where should a nurse palpate the fundus of a client who had an uncomplicated vaginal birth 3 days ago?

After an uncomplicated vaginal birth, the fundus, which is the top portion of the uterus, typically begins to descend into the pelvis shortly after delivery. By the third postpartum day, the fundus is generally located at or near the level of the umbilicus. This positioning is expected due to the process of involution, where the uterus shrinks back to its non-pregnant size and returns to its original location within the pelvic cavity.

Palpating the fundus at the level of the umbilicus helps the nurse assess the proper progression of uterine involution and determine any potential complications, such as retained placental fragments that could impede this process. Additionally, if the fundus were palpated below the pubic symphysis, it would indicate that the uterus is still significantly enlarged or improperly positioned, suggesting a possible complication. Conversely, finding the fundus above the umbilicus or at the level of the chest would also indicate an abnormality in the involution process. Thus, palpating it at the level of the umbilicus is the correct and expected practice for a client who is 3 days postpartum.