A nurse is preparing to administer an oxytocin IV infusion to a client for labor induction. The nurse recognizes that an oxytocin infusion may increase the client's risk for which of the following? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oxytocin (Pitocin) stimulates contraction of the uterine smooth muscle. It is commonly administered to induce or augment labor and to prevent postpartum hemorrhage. Oxytocin, a high-alert medication, is administered cautiously to avoid potential adverse effects, including: Category II or III fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns (eg, late decelerations, bradycardia). Abnormal or indeterminate FHR patterns are very common when using oxytocin and may occur because of reduced blood flow to the fetus during contractions (Option A). Emergency cesarean birth, which may be required due to persistent abnormal FHR pattern Postpartum hemorrhage - Uterine atony and uterine fatigue may occur if the client experiences prolonged exposure to exogenous oxytocin (Option D). Water intoxication - Oxytocin has an antidiuretic effect when administered at high doses over prolonged periods. Uterine tachysystole (ie, >5 contractions in 10 minutes) (Option E) (Option B) Endogenous oxytocin is excreted by the pituitary gland and triggers the milk ejection/let-down reflex. Administration of exogenous oxytocin (ie, synthetic oxytocin) has no known effect on milk production. (Option C) Uterine stimulation from oxytocin increases the risk of placental abruption and uterine rupture. Placenta previa (ie, abnormal implantation of the placenta over the cervical os) is unrelated to oxytocin administration. Educational objective: Oxytocin (Pitocin) stimulates contraction of the uterine smooth muscle and is used to induce or augment labor and to prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Oxytocin administration increases the risk of abnormal fetal heart rate patterns, emergency cesarean birth, uterine tachysystole, placental abruption, and uterine rupture. Prolonged administration increases the risk of water intoxication and PPH.

A Nurse Is Preparing to Administer an Oxytocin IV Infusion