In addition to oxytocin (Pitocin) administration, what other methods can induce labor?

The correct answer is choice c. Negative.

Choice A rationale:

“Satisfactory” is not a standard term used to describe the results of a contraction stress test (CST). The terms typically used are “negative,” “positive,” “equivocal,” or “unsatisfactory.”

Choice B rationale:

“Unsatisfactory” is used when the test cannot be interpreted due to inadequate contractions or other technical issues. In this case, the client is experiencing contractions every three minutes, and the fetal heart rate (FHR) is being monitored effectively.

Choice C rationale:

A “Negative” CST indicates that there are no late decelerations of the FHR during contractions, suggesting that the fetus is not experiencing significant distress and is likely tolerating the contractions well.

Choice D rationale:

A “Positive” CST would indicate the presence of late decelerations of the FHR with at least 50% of contractions, suggesting fetal hypoxia and compromised placental function. Since there are no decelerations in this scenario, this choice is incorrect.

Choice A rationale:

Attaching the IV line to the distal port is not a safe practice for oxytocin administration. This is because oxytocin is a high-alert medication that can have serious adverse effects if administered incorrectly. Attaching the IV line to the distal port increases the risk of the medication being infused too quickly, which can lead to uterine hyperstimulation, fetal distress, or even uterine rupture. The safest practice is to attach the IV line to the proximal port, which is closer to the patient's body and allows for slower infusion rates.

Choice B rationale:

Customizing the concentration of oxytocin is not a recommended practice. Oxytocin is available in a premixed solution of 10 units/mL, and this concentration should not be altered. Altering the concentration can lead to dosing errors and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Choice D rationale:

Titrating oxytocin to gravity is not a safe practice. Oxytocin should be administered using an infusion pump that can accurately control the infusion rate. Infusion pumps are necessary to ensure that the medication is administered at the correct dose and rate. Gravity-based infusions are less accurate and can lead to over- or under-infusion of the medication.

Choice C rationale:

Two RN verification is a safe practice for oxytocin administration. This practice involves having two registered nurses independently verify the medication, dose, and infusion rate before administration. This helps to prevent errors and ensure that the medication is administered safely.