Which of the following is a prostaglandin commonly used in induction of labour?

Appeared in: DHS 2018 shift 1st

Explanation

Misoprostol is a synthetic analog of Prostaglandin E₁ (PGE₁), a substance naturally involved in the process of labor.
Its primary functions in obstetrics are to ripen (soften and dilate) the cervix and to stimulate contractions of the uterine muscle.
Due to its effectiveness and low cost, it is a commonly used agent for inducing labor, especially when the cervix is unfavorable.
It can be administered through various routes, including oral and vaginal, making it a versatile option.

Option B: Atenolol is a beta-1 selective adrenergic antagonist (beta-blocker). Its primary use is to treat cardiovascular conditions like hypertension and angina.
Option C: Labetalol is a non-selective beta-blocker and alpha-1 blocker. It is commonly used to treat hypertension, including pregnancy-induced hypertension (preeclampsia).
Option D: This option is incorrect because Misoprostol is a valid and commonly used prostaglandin for labor induction.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacological agents for labor induction as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A critical nursing responsibility during prostaglandin-induced labor is continuous monitoring for uterine tachysystole (more than 5 contractions in a 10-minute period), as this can compromise fetal oxygenation.
Nurses must be prepared to intervene if tachysystole with fetal distress occurs, which may include administering a tocolytic agent (like terbutaline) to relax the uterus.
Patient education is vital. The nurse should explain the purpose of the medication, the monitoring process, and the potential side effects like cramping, fever, or diarrhea.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which asks for a specific type of drug ('prostaglandin') used for a specific purpose ('induction of labour').
Review the options provided. You need to recognize the drug class for each option.
Recall or deduce the function of prostaglandins in obstetrics. They are known to cause cervical ripening and uterine contractions.
Analyze Misoprostol. Recognize it as a prostaglandin analog used for labor induction.
Analyze Atenolol and Labetalol. Identify them as beta-blockers, which are used for managing blood pressure, not for inducing labor.
Based on this analysis, Misoprostol is the only correct choice among the given drug options, making 'None of the above' incorrect.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QBRCCI6rhkUgRyUFa4Kn33

E6 Obstetrics Williams pp. 83-95, 82-95

E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 527-529

Practise the full DHS 2018 shift 1st

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.