Oxytocin

Question 1

BRAND NAME

Answer 1

Pitocin
Syntocinon

Question 2

DRUG CLASS

Answer 2

Oxytocics

Question 3

THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS

Answer 3

Producing uterine contractions
Stimulates milk letdown

Question 4

INDICATIONS

Answer 4

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.

Question 5

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Answer 5

Cephalopelvic disproportion, in unfavorable fetal positions or presentations which are undeliverable without conversion prior to delivery

Question 6

SIDE EFFECTS

Answer 6

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.

Question 7

NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES

Answer 7

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.