The nurse is monitoring a woman who is receiving an oxytocin ...

[lracut11]

The nurse is monitoring a woman who is receiving an oxytocin infusion to stimulate contractions. An assessment reveals contractions of 100 seconds with 50-second intervals between them. The first nursing action should be to:
 
  a. Slow down the oxytocin infusion rate.
  b. Discontinue the oxytocin infusion.
  c. Increase the oxytocin infusion rate.
  d. Notify the primary health care provider.

Question 2

A woman is not progressing in her labor, and her health care provider has decided that augmentation is needed. Based on common practice, the nurse anticipates the use of intravenous oxytocin or:
 
  a. Amniotomy
  b. Tocolytic agents
  c. Leopold's maneuver
  d. External version

[matt]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
This assessment provides evidence of uterine hyperstimulation. Because hyperstimulation can lead to uteroplacental insufficiency, fetal compromise, uterine rupture, or a very rapid labor, the oxytocin should be stopped when contractions exceed 90 seconds in duration or there are less than 60 seconds between contractions. After the oxytocin is stopped, the physician must be notified.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The two most commonly used methods of induction or augmentation of labor are amniotomy and oxytocin infusion. None of the other options would augment labor.

[lracut11]

Thank you

[matt]

Happy to help you