A nurse working on the postpartum unit is caring for a woman who had a spontaneous delivery of a 9 lb, 6 oz baby 6 hr earlier. The nurse notes the patient has soaked four peri-pads and that her uterine fundus is boggy. Which of the following medications does the nurse anticipate being ordered?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms of excessive bleeding and a boggy uterus indicate uterine atony, which can be treated with uterine stimulants such as methylergonovine (methergine) or Pitocin (oxytocin). However, Pitocin is typically used as a first-line medication to prevent postpartum hemorrhage, while methylergonovine is used for treatment after hemorrhage has already occurred. Brethine (terbutaline) and magnesium sulfate are not appropriate medications for treating uterine atony post-delivery.

A Nurse Working on the Postpartum Unit Is Caring for a Woman