What it means
A rough measure used when a ruler is not practical. After birth, the top of the uterus (fundus) is described in fingerbreadths above or below the navel; it is usually at the navel on the first day and then drops about one fingerbreadth (about 1 cm) a day. Fingerbreadths are also used to check that a restraint, cast or strap is not too tight.
In a chart
"Fundus firm, midline, 2 fingerbreadths below the umbilicus."
At a glance
| Also written | fingerbreadths, finger breadth, finger breadths |
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