A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is at 15 weeks of gestation and is about to undergo an amniocentesis. The nurse should reinforce that this test can identify which of the following traits or problems? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale: Applying ice to the perineal area is not indicated in the case of suspected placenta previa. Placenta previa is related to the location of the placenta in the uterus and is not affected by the perineal area. Ice is commonly used for perineal discomfort after vaginal delivery but is not appropriate for placenta previa.
Choice B rationale: When a client is suspected to have placenta previa, a vaginal exam should be avoided because it can cause trauma to the placenta, leading to significant bleeding. Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers part or all of the cervix, and any disruption of the placenta can result in bleeding, which poses a risk to both the mother and the baby. Therefore, a vaginal exam is contraindicated in this situation.
Choice C rationale: Performing a rectal exam is also not appropriate for a client with suspected placenta previa. Rectal exams do not provide any relevant information about the placenta's location, and they can potentially cause discomfort or bleeding in this situation.
Choice D rationale: Applying an external fetal monitor is an appropriate action when caring for a pregnant client, regardless of whether there is a suspected placenta previa. The external fetal monitor is used to assess the baby's heart rate and uterine contractions and is a routine part of prenatal care. However, it does not specifically address the issue of placenta previa. The nurse should be vigilant for any signs of bleeding or changes in fetal heart rate pattern, which may indicate placental issues, and report them promptly for further evaluation and management.

Choice A rationale: Pain above the navel is not a specific indicator of labor and may be unrelated to the onset of labor.
Choice B rationale: Cervical dilation is a definitive sign of labor. It indicates that the cervix is opening to allow the baby's passage through the birth canal.
Choice C rationale: The presence of amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault (rupture of membranes) could indicate that the client's water has broken, but it does not confirm active labor. Labor can begin before or after the rupture of membranes.
Choice D rationale: Regular contractions are a typical sign of labor, but their frequency alone does not confirm active labor. Other signs, such as cervical dilation and effacement, are necessary to confirm active labor.