Which statement about administrating oxytocin during labor is correct?

• A. Should be given by an electronic infusion pump
• B. Can be given orally
• C. Given as a topical gel
• D. Given as a daily injection

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that oxytocin given during labor must be delivered in a controlled, adjustable way so contractions can be titrated to the progress of labor and fetal status. Using an electronic infusion pump allows precise, continuous IV administration, so the dose can be increased or decreased quickly as needed and monitored closely for safety. This precise control is essential because oxytocin can cause too-strong contractions or distress if not carefully managed.

Oral administration wouldn’t be effective in labor because oxytocin is a peptide that isn’t reliably absorbed and would not provide the rapid, controllable effect needed during labor. A topical gel isn’t a practical or reliable method to stimulate uterine contractions. A daily injection isn’t appropriate for labor management either, since labor requires ongoing, adjustable infusions rather than a single daily dose.