| What is the gestational age? | Verify dates by clinical history and ultrasonography |
| Are the membranes ruptured? | History of leaking fluid; observed leakage of fluid from cervical os on sterile speculum examination; nitrazine-positive reaction of fluid; ferning of fluid; ultrasonography for oligohydramnios; amnioinfusion of indigo carmine, if available |
| Is the patient in labor? | Observe for contractions accompanied by cervical effacement and dilation |
| Is there an infection? | Group B streptococcus carrier status; urinary tract infection; bacterial vaginosis; trichomoniasis; gonorrhea or chlamydia |
| What is the likelihood that the patient will deliver prematurely? | Consider endovaginal ultrasonography of cervical length and/or fetal fibronectin testing |