When assessing for ballottement, the nurse should expect the response to be felt as?

Ballottement refers to a technique used during a physical examination, particularly in obstetrics, to assess the position and mobility of the fetus in the uterus. When a healthcare provider gently pushes on the uterus, they are looking for a specific response from the fetus. A light tapping sensation is the expected response during ballottement, indicating that the examiner felt the fetus bouncing away from the applied pressure and then returning to its original position.

This response is crucial in confirming fetal presence and assessing the level of amniotic fluid, as it demonstrates the fetal ability to move within the amniotic cavity. The light tapping sensation is indicative of a fetus that is adequately developed enough to respond to the gentle pressure applied during the assessment. Recognizing this response aids in ensuring that the pregnancy is progressing normally, while other sensations like strong contractions, persistent pressure, or increased movement do not accurately reflect the ballottement technique or its expected outcome.