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.