What order related to placenta previa should the nurse question?

In the context of placenta previa, a manual cervical exam should be questioned because it poses a risk of causing bleeding or disruption to the placenta. Placenta previa occurs when the placenta is positioned at or near the opening of the cervix, which can lead to complications if the cervix is manipulated. A manual examination could potentially provoke bleeding and compromise both maternal and fetal safety.

On the other hand, transabdominal ultrasound and nonstress tests are safe and non-invasive assessments that do not interfere with the positioning of the placenta and can provide valuable information regarding the status of the fetus and placenta. A transvaginal ultrasound, while it may seem more invasive, is often necessary for a precise assessment of the placenta's location, especially in cases of suspected previa, and is performed with caution to avoid any complications.