Review
The nurse's role during oxytocin administration
S Clayworth. MCN Am J Matern Child Nurs. 2000 Mar-Apr.
Abstract
This article addresses the importance of the nursing role in the management of oxytocin during induction/augmentation of labor. It is nurses at the bedside of laboring women who make oxytocin titration decisions based on their nursing assessments. Those decisions must be based on a sound knowledge of the pharmacologic properties of oxytocin, the physiology of uterine contractions, and the response of the woman and fetus to contractions. In addition, nurses must be aware of the standards and guidelines of care that govern their actions during induction/augmentation.
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INTRODUCTION
oxytocin [ox-i-toe-sin]
Pitocin, Syntocinon
Classification
Therapeutic: hormones
Pharmacologic: oxytocics
Indications
IV: Induction of labor at term. Facilitation of uterine contractions at term. Facilitation of threatened abortion. Postpartum control of bleeding after expulsion of the placenta. Intranasal: Used to promote milk letdown in lactating women. Unlabeled Use: Evaluation of fetal competence [fetal stress test].
Action
Stimulates uterine smooth muscle, producing uterine contractions similar to those in spontaneous labor. Stimulates mammary gland smooth muscle, facilitating lactation. Has vasopressor and antidiuretic effects. Therapeutic Effects: Induction of labor [IV]. Milk letdown [intranasal].
Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
Maternal adverse reactions are noted for IV use only
CNS: maternal: COMA, SEIZURES fetal: INTRACRANIAL HEMORRHAGE. Resp: fetal: ASPHYXIA, hypoxia. CV: maternal: hypotension; fetal: arrhythmias. F and E: maternal: hypochloremia, hyponatremia, water intoxication. Misc: maternal: increased uterine motility, painful contractions, abruptio placentae, decreased uterine blood flow, hypersensitivity.
PHYSICAL THERAPY IMPLICATIONS
Examination and Evaluation
If administered IV during childbirth, be alert for maternal seizures or decreased consciousness that progresses to coma. Report seizures or coma-like responses to the physician or nursing staff immediately.
Monitor any signs of fetal distress or asphyxia, such as decreased fetal heart rate, arrhythmias, meconium discharge, or decreased or absent fetal movements. Report these signs to the physician or nursing staff immediately.
Assess maternal blood pressure periodically and compare to normal values [See Appendix F]. Report low blood pressure [hypotension], especially if patient experiences dizziness, fatigue, or other symptoms.
Monitor signs of maternal fluid and electrolyte imbalances, such as low sodium levels [hyponatremia], low chloride levels [hypochloremia], or a relative increase in body fluid [water intoxication]. Signs include headache, confusion, lethargy, irritability, decreased consciousness, and neuromuscular abnormalities [muscle weakness and cramps]. Report these signs to the physician or nursing staff.
Interventions
During childbirth, implement physical agents, relaxation techniques, and manual therapies [massage, others] as needed to help reduce pain during uterine contractions.
Patient/Client-Related Instruction
If used intranasally to facilitate breast-feeding, make sure patient uses proper administration technique and does not exceed the recommended dose or frequency of intranasal applications.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed from the nasal mucosa.
Distribution: Widely distributed in extracellular fluid. Small amounts reach fetal circulation.
Metabolism and Excretion: Rapidly metabolized by liver and kidneys.
Half-life: 3–9 min.
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TIME/ACTION PROFILE [IV = uterine contractions; intranasal = milk letdown]
IV | immediate | unknown | 1 hr |
IM | 3–5 min | unknown | 30–60 min |
intranasal | few mins | unknown | 20 min |
Contraindications/Precautions
...