What is Oxytocin?

- Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and is used to induce labor.

*If uterine hypertonicity or a nonreassuring FHR pattern occurs while recieving oxytocin, the nurse would intervene to reduce uterine activity and increase fetal oxygenation.

1. The oxytocin infusion is stopped.
2. The client is placed in a side-lying position.
3. Oxygen by face mask at 8 to 10 L/min is administered.
4. The physician is notified.
5. The nurse would monitor the client’s blood pressure and monitor intake and output.

*However, the nurse would first stop the infusion.