What is tocolysis, and name a common tocolytic drug?

Prepare for the HESI Obstetrics and Maternity Assignment Exam. Utilize flashcards and practice multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is tocolysis, and name a common tocolytic drug?

Explanation:
Tocolysis means using medication to stop uterine contractions in preterm labor to delay birth, giving time for fetal lung maturity and for steroids or transfer if needed. A common tocolytic is terbutaline, a beta-adrenergic agonist that relaxes the uterus by increasing cyclic AMP in the myometrium, which lowers intracellular calcium and reduces contractions. This action helps pause labor temporarily. The other options describe starting labor, relieving pain, or preventing infection, which are not what tocolysis does.

Tocolysis means using medication to stop uterine contractions in preterm labor to delay birth, giving time for fetal lung maturity and for steroids or transfer if needed. A common tocolytic is terbutaline, a beta-adrenergic agonist that relaxes the uterus by increasing cyclic AMP in the myometrium, which lowers intracellular calcium and reduces contractions. This action helps pause labor temporarily. The other options describe starting labor, relieving pain, or preventing infection, which are not what tocolysis does.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy