Medications & Pharmacology in Midwifery Flashcards

Oxytocin augmentation during labor requires which type of monitoring?

Answer: Continuous electronic fetal monitoring

Continuous EFM is required during oxytocin augmentation to detect fetal intolerance (late decelerations, prolonged decelerations) from uterine hyperstimulation.

Which analgesic crosses the placenta most readily and can cause neonatal respiratory depression if given close to delivery?

Answer: IV opioids (e.g., fentanyl, morphine)

IV opioids cross the placenta and can cause neonatal respiratory depression; their timing must be managed carefully to minimize neonatal exposure near delivery.

Naloxone (Narcan) is administered to a newborn to reverse respiratory depression caused by:

Answer: Maternal opioid analgesics given during labor

Naloxone reverses opioid-induced neonatal respiratory depression by competitively blocking opioid receptors in the newborn.

Betamethasone (Celestone) is given to pregnant women threatened with preterm labor between 24–34 weeks to promote:

Answer: Fetal lung maturity

Antenatal corticosteroids such as betamethasone accelerate fetal lung surfactant production, significantly reducing respiratory distress syndrome in preterm newborns.

Misoprostol (Cytotec) used for cervical ripening is administered via which route?

Answer: Buccal, sublingual, or intravaginal routes

Misoprostol can be administered buccally, sublingually, vaginally, or orally depending on clinical indication and institutional protocol.

Which antidote is given for magnesium sulfate toxicity?

Answer: Calcium gluconate

Calcium gluconate 1 g IV is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity, restoring normal neuromuscular function.