Preterm Labor: In a Nutshell (Nursing)

00:01 So, in a nutshell, preterm labor is the onset of regular labor contractions leading to cervical change prior to 37 weeks.

00:10 Risks factors for preterm labor include infection, previous abdominal surgery, cocaine use, periodontal disease, multiple gestation, stress, abnormal amniotic fluid levels, cervical trauma, vaginal bleeding, and of course, ethnicity.

00:29 And remember, that's about racism and exposure to stress, rather than just differences.

00:35 A cerclage or progesterone may be ordered to prevent preterm labor or birth.

00:40 Fetal fibronectin or a cervical length test are ways that we can predict preterm birth.

00:46 For a client who presents with preterm contractions, an OB history, membrane status, cervical dilation, fetal monitoring and labs may be ordered to check for signs of infection.

00:58 Terbutaline and nifedipine, are tocolytics that may be given to stop or slow preterm labor contractions.

01:06 Magnesium sulfate is a neuroprotectant that's given to the pregnant client to protect the fetus, and client should be monitored for signs of toxicity.

01:15 And finally, corticosteroids may be given to the pregnant client before 34 weeks in order to increase fetal lung maturity and protect the newborn.

01:26 All done.