A client who is scheduled for induction of labor receives a prescription for oxytocin 2 milliunits/min intravenously (IV). The IV bag contains oxytocin 20 units in lactated Ringer’s 1 liter.

How many mL/hour should the nurse program the infusion pump to deliver? .

The correct answer is calculated as follows:

Step 1: Identify the total amount of oxytocin in the IV bag. The bag contains 20 units of oxytocin in 1 liter (or 1000 mL) of lactated Ringer’s solution.

Step 2: Convert the oxytocin units to milliunits. 1 unit = 1000 milliunits, so 20 units = 20,000 milliunits.

Step 3: Calculate the concentration of the oxytocin solution in milliunits/mL. Divide the total amount of oxytocin in milliunits by the total volume of the solution in mL.

So, 20,000 milliunits ÷ 1000 mL = 20 milliunits/mL.

Step 4: Calculate the infusion rate in mL/hour. The prescription is for an infusion rate of 2 milliunits/min. Since the concentration of the solution is 20 milliunits/mL, we divide the prescribed rate by the concentration to get the rate in mL/min. So, 2 milliunits/min ÷ 20 milliunits/mL = 0.1 mL/min.

Step 5: Convert the infusion rate to mL/hour. Multiply the rate in mL/min by the number of minutes in an hour. So, 0.1 mL/min × 60 min/hour = 6 mL/hour. Therefore, the nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver 6 mL/hour.

Choice A rationale

While remaining on clear liquids until the vomiting subsides may seem like a reasonable approach, it may not be the best course of action for a pregnant woman who has been vomiting for 24 hours. This is because prolonged vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be harmful to both the mother and the fetus.

Choice B rationale

Taking nothing by mouth until there is no more nausea is not advisable in this situation. Nausea can persist even after vomiting has stopped, and it’s important for the woman to stay hydrated and nourished.

Choice C rationale

The best course of action in this situation is for the woman to come to the clinic to be seen by a healthcare provider. This is because prolonged vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be harmful to both the mother and the fetus. In addition, the healthcare provider can assess the woman’s condition and provide appropriate treatment.

Choice D rationale

Making an appointment at the clinic if a fever occurs is not the best advice in this situation. While it’s important to seek medical attention if a fever develops, the woman should not wait for this to happen before seeking help. Prolonged vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be harmful to both the mother and the fetus, and should be addressed promptly.