What should be avoided until the placenta's location is confirmed?

The key consideration in this scenario is the potential risk of complications, such as bleeding, which can be exacerbated by certain actions when the placenta's location is unknown. Digital exams, specifically, can disrupt or dislodge a placenta that may be low-lying or partially covering the cervical os. This could lead to maternal hemorrhage or fetal distress, especially in cases of placenta previa, where placenta placement over the cervix poses significant risks during examination and delivery. As such, confirming the position of the placenta through an ultrasound or other imaging techniques before performing a digital exam becomes critical to ensuring the safety of both the mother and the fetus.

While other options involve interventions that may be necessary in various clinical situations, they do not carry the same direct risk associated with the uncertainty of the placenta's location as the digital exam does. It's important in clinical practice to prioritize safety by confirming the placement of the placenta before undertaking any procedure that could result in harm.