At 20 weeks' gestation, where should the fundal height be located in a primigravid client?

At 20 weeks' gestation, the fundal height is typically at the level of the umbilicus in a primigravid client. This measurement is an important aspect of prenatal care as it helps to assess fetal growth and uterine development.

During this stage of pregnancy, the uterus has grown sufficiently to rise to the level of the umbilicus, marking an important developmental milestone. As the pregnancy progresses, the fundal height will continue to increase and generally correlates with gestational age, allowing healthcare providers to monitor growth and ensure that the pregnancy is progressing normally.

The other options provided describe locations that are not consistent with normal anatomical development at this stage in pregnancy. The fundus being halfway between the symphysis pubis and umbilicus would be more appropriate for earlier in the pregnancy. Being at the level of the xiphoid process or between the umbilicus and xiphoid process would indicate a much later stage of gestation, as the uterus continues to expand towards these regions as the fetus grows. Thus, the level of the umbilicus at 20 weeks signifies an expected and healthy development of the pregnancy.