Tocolytic therapy
Description
Tocolytic therapy involves the use of medications to suppress uterine activity.
Several drugs may be used including magnesium sulfate, terbutaline, nifedipine, or indomethacin.
AlertTocolytic therapy is contraindicated if the gestation is less than 20 weeks, cervical dilation is greater than 4 cm, and cervical effacement is greater than 50%.
Equipment
I.V. equipment
I.V. infusion pump
Essential steps
Assess baseline uterine contractions and fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns.
Explain the drug therapy ordered, including the route used and possible adverse effects.
Start an I.V. line for the patient who’s to receive magnesium sulfate or terbutaline I.V.
Obtain laboratory studies such as complete blood count, hemoglobin and hematocrit, and serum electrolytes.
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