Maternity Nursing Q 80
Because cervical effacement and dilation are not progressing in a patient in labor, the doctor orders I.V. administration of oxytocin (Pitocin). Why should the nurse monitor the patient’s fluid intake and output closely during oxytocin administration?
A. Oxytocin causes water intoxication.
B. Oxytocin causes excessive thirst.
C. Oxytocin is toxic to the kidneys.
D. Oxytocin has a diuretic effect.
Correct Answer: A. Oxytocin causes water intoxication.
The nurse should monitor fluid intake and output because prolonged oxytocin infusion may cause severe water intoxication, leading to seizures, coma, and death. In addition, oxytocin may cause water intoxication via an antidiuretic hormone-like activity when administered in excessive doses with electrolyte-free solution.
Option B: Excessive thirst results from the work of labor and limited oral fluid intake—not oxytocin.
Option C: Oxytocin, when given in rapid bolus, produces marked but short-lived hypotension and tachycardia. Sometimes, this abrupt and severe hemodynamic depression may need to be distinguished from placental abruption, myocardial infarction, or a pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing delivery.
Option D: Oxytocin is known to possess antidiuretic properties. It can function physiologically as an antidiuretic hormone, mimicking the short-term action of vasopressin on water permeability, albeit with somewhat lower potency.