A patient is admitted to the hospital to deliver through labor induction. The nurse administers oxytocin as ordered by the physician. Knowing the potential complications of oxytocin, which of the following should the nurse monitor closely?

Explanation

• Oxytocin stimulates strong uterine contractions that can cause decreased fetal heart rate and hypoxia due to increased uterine pressure. The nurse should closely monitor the fetal heart rate for any changes.
• Incorrect: Although it is important to monitor cervical dilation, maternal heart rate, and maternal neurological status, fetal heart rate is the most critical assessment to monitor when giving oxytocin.

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