Intravenous (IV) oxytocin used antepartum is indicated to induce labor in patients with a medical indication to stimulate or reinforce labor in selected cases of uterine inertia and as an adjunct in the management of incomplete or inevitable abortion. Used postpartum, IV oxytocin is indicated to produce uterine contractions during expulsion of the placenta and to control postpartum bleeding or hemorrhage. However, improper administration of oxytocin can lead to harm to patients due to hyperstimulation of the uterus, which in turn can result in fetal distress, the need for an emergency cesarean section, or uterine rupture.
This podcast will review the indications for use for oxytocin, explain the types of errors associated with its use as well as safe practice recommendations for acute care organizations.
Speakers:
Endonita Hajzerajo, PharmD, RPh, Post-Doctoral Fellow, Novartis, Name Creation & Regulatory Strategy
Kelly McKeown, BSN, RN, Perinatal Nurse at Main Line Health, MSN Student at Villanova University
This podcast is supported by Novartis, Name Creation & Regulatory Strategy.