Oxytocin G8

Question 1

Oxytocin Class

Answer 1

• Pituitary hormone
• Uterine vasoconstrictor

Question 2

Oxytocin MOA

Answer 2

• Binds to oxytocin receptor sites on the surface of the uterine smooth muscle.
• Increases force and frequency of uterine contractions.
• Causes dilation of vascular smooth muscle, increasing coronary, cerebral and renal blood flow

Question 3

Oxytocin Indications

Answer 3

• Postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony after infant and placental delivery

Question 4

Oxytocin Adult dose

Answer 4

• 10 units (U) IM, given after delivery of placenta to stop moderate to severe vaginal bleeding

• 10 – 40 mU/min IV/IO, start at 10 mU/min. and increase by 10 mU every 20 min until bleeding has slowed or stopped

• To make infusion: add 40 U (4 mL) to 1000mL of NS to make 40 mU/mL.

Question 5

Oxytocin Contraindications

Answer 5

• Known hypersensitivity
• Presence of an additional fetus, unfavorable positioning, anticipated non-vaginal delivery,
• Fetal distress when delivery is not imminent.

Question 6

Oxytocin Adverse effects

Answer 6

• Hypotension
• Dysrhythmias
• Coma
• Seizures
• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Anaphylaxis
• Painful uterine contractions
• Electrolyte disturbances
• Maternal intracranial hemorrhage

Question 7

Oxytocin Pediatric dose

Answer 7

No