The drugs administered to promote uterine contractions are

NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-1st

Pharmacology

Easy

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-1st

Explanation

All three drugs listed—Oxytocin, Ergometrine, and Misoprostol—are classified as uterine stimulants, also known as oxytocics or uterotonics.
These medications work through different mechanisms to increase the tone and contractility of the uterine myometrium.
Oxytocin induces rhythmic contractions similar to normal labor, Ergometrine causes sustained contractions, and Misoprostol (a prostaglandin) initiates strong contractions and cervical ripening.
Because all individual options are correct examples of drugs that promote uterine contractions, the most comprehensive and accurate answer is 'All of the above'.

Option A: This is an incomplete answer. While Oxytocin is a primary uterine stimulant, Ergometrine and Misoprostol also serve this function, making 'All of the above' a more complete choice.
Option B: This is an incomplete answer. Ergometrine is one of several drugs that promote uterine contractions. Oxytocin and Misoprostol are also correct examples.
Option C: This is an incomplete answer. Misoprostol is a prostaglandin analogue that stimulates the uterus, but other classes of drugs, like hormones and ergot alkaloids, also do.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacology of Uterine Stimulants (Oxytocics) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must know the different types of uterine contractions each drug produces. Administering Ergometrine during labor (instead of postpartum) can cause uterine tetany and fetal distress, a critical patient safety issue.
Proper storage is vital: Oxytocin often requires refrigeration, while Misoprostol is typically stored at room temperature, affecting medication management on the ward.
What if? If a patient has severe hypertension or pre-eclampsia, Ergometrine is contraindicated due to its vasoconstrictive effects. The nurse would anticipate the provider ordering Oxytocin or Misoprostol for PPH management instead.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is about drugs that cause uterine contractions (uterotonics).
Evaluate each option individually. Is Oxytocin a uterine stimulant? Yes. Is Ergometrine a uterine stimulant? Yes. Is Misoprostol a uterine stimulant? Yes.
Recognize that options A, B, and C are all correct examples of the drug class asked about in the stem.
When multiple options are individually correct, check if an 'All of the above' option is available.
Conclude that 'All of the above' is the most complete and therefore the best answer, as it encompasses all the correct individual options.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pharmacology Nurses Shanbhag 3e p. 240-242

E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 2 pp. 241-243, 242-244