Effect of an Oxytocin Protocol on Secondary Uterotonic Use in Patients Undergoing Cesarean Delivery

Abstract

(Can J Anaesth. 2023;70(7):1194–1201) Following childbirth, it is customary to administer oxytocin to prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Oxytocin, the first line uterotonic, is typically given intravenously immediately after vaginal and cesarean delivery. Different oxytocin protocols exist and the optimal dosing regimen is yet to be determined. A rule of three’s oxytocin protocol was previously described and found to reduce the overall amount of oxytocin administered during scheduled cesarean deliveries (CD) while maintaining adequate uterine tone. The aim of the study was to compare a modified rule of three’s oxytocin protocol to a free-flow oxytocin infusion after CD.