A potential complication of oxytocin administration is?

• A. Maternal hypotension
• B. Placental abruption
• C. Uterine hyperstimulation
• D. Fetal tachycardia

Answer: (C)

When oxytocin is given to stimulate labor, it can overdo the stimulation of the uterus. This leads to uterine hyperstimulation (tachysystole), defined as more than five contractions in 10 minutes, averaged over 30 minutes, or contractions lasting longer than two minutes. Excessive contractions reduce uteroplacental blood flow, which can cause fetal hypoxia and distress and increase the risk of complications like uterine rupture, especially if the uterus has a scar from prior cesarean. Management focuses on correcting the stimulation: decrease or stop the oxytocin, adjust IV fluids, and consider tocolysis if contractions remain excessive. Monitoring of fetal status and uterine activity guides further actions. While other issues like maternal hypotension, placental abruption, or fetal tachycardia can occur in obstetric care, uterine hyperstimulation is the most directly related and actionable complication of oxytocin administration.