Nursing 209

N209: Reproductive Health Study Guide • Spinal: Used most frequently for routine, non-urgent C-sections as a one-time injection o Also known as “subarachnoid block” o Can provide post-operative analgesia by adding an opioid (Duramorph) to the anesthetic, which can be effective for as long as 24 hours Oxytocin (Pitocin) • A natural hormone that stimulates uterine contractions • Used to induce or augment labor, as well as to control bleeding after delivery • If used for induction, must be infused via pump with continuous fetal monitoring • Dosage is titrated according to contraction pattern (per hospital protocol) Cervical Ripening Agents • Help to prepare cervix for induction • Prostaglandin gel and Cervidil Antiemetics • Relief of nausea, vomiting, and heartburn • Reglan, Zofran, Vitamin B6, Unisom, and Diclegis Nonpharmacological Support • Continuous labor support (a Doula) • Baths in labor (Jacuzzi) • Maternal movement and positioning • Acupuncture/acupressure • Hypnosis • TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) • Aromatherapy • Application of heat and cold • Breathing techniques • Use of music

4.7 Alternative Birth Options Birth Centers • Care is provided by midwives •

Free-standing, home-like settings

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