A client presenting with painless vaginal bleeding at 30 weeks gestation will likely undergo which diagnostic procedure?

In the scenario of a client presenting with painless vaginal bleeding at 30 weeks gestation, the recommended diagnostic procedure would typically be an ultrasound examination. This is crucial for assessing the condition of the fetus and identifying potential causes of the bleeding, such as placenta previa or placental abruption.

An ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the fetus and the surrounding structures, allowing healthcare providers to visualize the placental location, amniotic fluid levels, and fetal development. This is particularly important when there is vaginal bleeding, as the imaging can help determine the underlying issue and guide further management decisions.

In contrast, a non-stress test evaluates fetal heart rate patterns in response to fetal movement and is used primarily to assess fetal well-being rather than to investigate the cause of bleeding. A contraction stress test is focused on observing the fetal heart rate response during contractions and is not indicated in the case of painless vaginal bleeding. Amniocentesis is an invasive procedure used to collect amniotic fluid for genetic testing or assessing fetal maturity but is not indicated simply for painless vaginal bleeding, especially at this stage of pregnancy.

Thus, ultrasound examination is the most appropriate choice in this situation to effectively evaluate the cause of the bleeding and ensure the