During the examination of a patient who is pregnant 24 weeks the health care provider performs the ...

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Rationale: The transverse diameter of the outlet is measured by placing the fist between the ischial tuberosities. The subpubic angle is estimated by palpating the bony structure externally with two fingers placed side by side at the border of the symphysis. The height and inclination of the symphysis pubis are measured, and the contour of the pubic arch is estimated. Excessively long or angulated bone structure shortens the diameter of the obstetric conjugate. Height can be determined by placing the index finger of the gloved hand up to the superior border of the symphysis. The anteroposterior sagittal diameter is the most significant diameter of the outlet because it is the shortest diameter through which the infant must pass. The examiner uses two fingers to determine the contour of the pubic arch. This provides information on the width of the angle at which these bones come together.