Which of the following complications can occur with oxytocin administration?

• A. Uteroplacental exchange is compromised
• B. Uterine tachysystole
• C. Non-reassuring FHR patterns
• D. Loss of variability

Answer: (A)

Oxytocin administration is primarily used to induce labor and enhance uterine contractions; however, it also carries certain risks and potential complications. One significant complication that can arise from oxytocin use is uterine tachysystole. This condition is characterized by an excessive frequency of contractions, often defined as five or more contractions within a ten-minute window over a 30-minute period. Uterine tachysystole can compromise blood flow to the placenta, leading to inadequate oxygen supply for the fetus, which can manifest as non-reassuring fetal heart rate patterns or loss of variability in fetal heart rate.

In this context, the most relevant answer focuses on the potential risks associated with the excessive stimulation of uterine contractions. When uterine tachysystole occurs, it can interfere with uteroplacental blood flow, leading to decreased oxygen exchange and complicating the fetal environment. Therefore, recognizing uterine tachysystole as a complication of oxytocin administration is crucial for ensuring both maternal and fetal safety during labor.