(2) Oxytocin induction. Pitocin or Syntocinon may be used and
administered by slow intravenous drip.
(3)
Vaginal gel. Porstaglandin E-2 vaginal gel has been used in some
cases.
d. Nursing Interventions.
(1) Never leave the patient alone. There may be potential hazards to the
patient and fetus during oxytocin administration. Check the IV rate of flow frequently to
ensure it is accurate.
(2) Alleviate fears of the mother that induction may harm the fetus. The
patient needs reassurance that her contractions will not differ in their effects from those
of the full-term patient. Instruct the patient in breathing techniques. This will help in
relieving discomfort.
5-5.
DYSTOCIA OF LABOR AND CAUSATIVE REASONS
a. Description.
(1) Dystocia of labor refers to labor that is difficult due to mechanical and
functional factors.
(2) When dystocia is present, the following factors tend to interfere with the
ultimate goal of labor (dilation of the cervix and pushing the fetus through the birth canal
into the outside world) which is caused by deviations of the normal interrelationships
between any of the five Ps of labor.
(a) Passage-bones and soft tissue of the birth canal.
(b) Power-uterine contractions.
(c)
Passenger-the fetus, its size, presentation and position, and
anomalies.
(d) Placenta-position, time, and mode of expulsion.
(e) Psyche-emotional response of the woman to labor.
(3) The interrelationships of these five factors determine the pattern and
progress of labor.
MD0922
5-6