DRUG Methergine (methylergometri ne maleate)

ACTION The uterotonic effect of Methergine (methylergonovine maleate) is utilized after delivery to assist involution and decrease hemorrh age, shortening the third stage of labor.

INDICATIONS Postpartum hemorrhage and uterine atony, subinvolution.

CONTRAINDICATIO
N

NURSING ADVERSE EFFECT Hyper- or hypotension, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, dyspnea, headache, hematuria, thrombophlebitis, water intoxication, hallucinations, leg cramps, dizziness, tinnitus, nasal congestion, diarrhea, diaphoresis, palpitations, foul taste. RESPONSIBILITY Monitor first the blood pressure of the patient before administering. Do not administer if BP is140/90 or greater. Continue to monitor vital signs as ordered after initial dose throughout therapy. Assess the amount of vaginal bleeding and fundal consistency before administering to provide a baseline. Continue to assess these parameters frequently after administration. Monitor pad count.

Hypertension. Toxemia. Pregnancy (Cat.C).