The nurse is administering Terbutaline (Brethine) to a pregnant woman to stop preterm labor. Which finding indicates an adverse reaction and the Physician must be notified?
Select one:
A.
Maternal hypotension
B.
Pulmonary edema.
C.
Fetal bradycardia
D.
Fetal hypokalemia
E.
Fetal hypokalemia
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: B. Pulmonary edema
Explanation:
Terbutaline (Brethine) is a beta-adrenergic agonist used to manage preterm labor by relaxing uterine smooth muscle and delaying labor. While it can be effective, it can also lead to several potential adverse reactions, some of which may require urgent medical attention.
- Maternal Hypotension: This is a decrease in blood pressure in the mother and can be a side effect of Terbutaline due to its vasodilatory properties. While it is important to monitor blood pressure, hypotension is not the most immediate or severe adverse reaction compared to others.
- Pulmonary Edema: Pulmonary edema is a serious condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing and reduced oxygenation. Terbutaline can lead to fluid retention and, consequently, pulmonary edema. This condition can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing, and orthopnea (difficulty breathing when lying flat). The occurrence of pulmonary edema necessitates immediate notification of the physician and intervention to prevent further complications.
- Fetal Bradycardia: This refers to a slow heart rate in the fetus. While Terbutaline can sometimes cause fetal heart rate changes, bradycardia is less common and generally less urgent compared to pulmonary edema. Continuous fetal monitoring is necessary to assess any potential impact on the fetus.
- Fetal Hypokalemia: Low potassium levels in the fetus can be a concern but are not as immediately life-threatening as pulmonary edema. Monitoring maternal and fetal electrolytes is important, but hypokalemia alone does not typically necessitate immediate physician notification unless it is severe or symptomatic.
In summary, among the potential adverse effects of Terbutaline, pulmonary edema is the most urgent and severe, requiring immediate physician intervention to manage the patient’s condition and prevent further complications.