7.4.1 Indications– Induction of labour. Show
7.4.2 Risks of using oxytocin during labour– Maternal risk: uterine rupture, especially in a scarred uterus, but in a unscarred uterus as well, particularly if it is overdistended (multiparity, polyhydramnios, multiple pregnancy) or if there is major foeto-pelvic disproportion. 7.4.3 Contra-indications to the use of oxytocin during labour– Obvious foeto-pelvic disproportion, including malpresentation (brow, transverse, etc.). 7.4.4 Situations requiring special precautions– Prior single low transverse caesarean section. These factors increase the risk of uterine rupture. Oxytocin may be used provided the following precautions are respected: 7.4.5 Conditions for oxytocin use– Given
the risk to both mother and foetus, use of oxytocin during labour requires: In the event of foetal distress, uterine
hyperkinesia (more than 5 contractions in 10 minutes) or uterine hypertony (absence of uterine relaxation): stop the oxytocin. Table 7.2 - Use of oxytocin
What are important nursing assessments when a laboring client's membranes rupture?When membranes rupture, the priority focus should be on assessing fetal heart rate (FHR) first to identify a deceleration, which might indicate cord compression secondary to cord prolapse. Prolonged ruptured membranes increase the risk of infection as a result of ascending vaginal organisms for both mother and fetus.
How are uterine contractions monitored?During labor, uterine contractions are usually monitored along with the fetal heart rate. A pressure-sensitive device called a tocodynamometer is placed on the mother's abdomen over the area of strongest contractions to measure the length, frequency, and strength of uterine contractions.
What is the most effective nursing intervention that stimulates uterine contraction?Induction of Labor by Oxytocin. Administration of oxytocin can initiate contractions in a uterus in pregnancy term.
What is the right technique to monitor the frequency of the uterine contraction during labor?When timing contractions, start counting from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next. The easiest way to time contractions is to write down on paper the time each contraction starts and its duration, or count the seconds the actual contraction lasts, as shown in the example below.
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